Justice Ministry Officials Favor Security Charge Against Netanyahu Aide

Senior officials in Israel's Justice Ministry believe that Jonathan Uriach, a close advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, should be charged with a security offense in the "Catergate" affair. The case involves alleged connections between Qatar and the Prime Minister's office. The Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, and prosecution officials are awaiting an opinion from the Mossad intelligence agency regarding the matter. A meeting on this subject is expected to take place within the intelligence organization in the coming days.

Previously, it was reported that the Mossad's forthcoming opinion might deem the security damage in the "Catergate" affair as "marginal." This assessment has raised concerns within the prosecution, as they fear it could weaken the evidentiary basis for the case. However, sources familiar with the details indicate that the charge of contact with a foreign agent is still likely to be included in the indictment.

Law enforcement officials have expressed a sentiment that the Mossad may be protecting its former operatives and avoiding classifying their actions as criminal. Recent revelations show that Uriach, despite denying knowing Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik, met with him in July 2024. Israel Einhorn testified that Uriach met Footlik for the first time at the Euro 2024 final in Berlin.

Further details have emerged about a meeting between Uriach and a senior Qatari official, Ali Al-Thawadi. Police testimonies suggest this meeting occurred several weeks after the Euro 2024 final, took place in London, and involved discussions of "business matters." Approximately two months ago, it was reported that Attorney General Baharav-Miara was expected to decide on indictments for security offenses against Uriach and Eli Feldstein, with a former senior Mossad official also facing a potential indictment pending a hearing.