Israeli Journalist Apologizes for Staying at Qatar Lobbyist's Apartment

The apology followed a report by Haaretz revealing that Maswadeh stayed for two weeks in an empty apartment owned by the lobbyist, identified as Jay Pootlik or Jay Potalik. Maswadeh explained that the lobbyist is a personal friend of many years and that he stayed there while settling into the city. News 13 confirmed the details, emphasizing that the hospitality was based on a personal friendship and had no connection to Maswadeh's professional work.

According to TheMarker, Maswadeh's stay occurred while he had testified in an investigation concerning Qatar. The lobbyist is wanted for questioning in Israel regarding his role in the affair, but has not been interrogated due to a refusal by the United States to cooperate with Israel's request. Maswadeh did not mention his testimony in his apology, but insisted his friendship with the lobbyist never influenced his journalistic judgment or reporting.