Israeli PM’s aide arrested for alleged intelligence leak, Netanyahu denies involvement

CAIRO – 2 November 2024: An aide to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been apprehended among several suspects for their alleged involvement in a critical security breach, which authorities claim included the leaking of highly classified intelligence.

Axios reported that such arrest marks a significant development and is poised to become one of the most substantial scandals to rock the Israeli government since the onset of the Israeli war in Gaza.

The Israeli army and domestic intelligence agency Shin Bet launched an investigation following the leak of a top-secret intelligence report to the German tabloid, Bild, a few weeks ago.

The leaked report, allegedly authored by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, outlined Hamas' tactics regarding captive situations and ceasefire negotiations. The publication of this information in early September raised significant concerns within Israeli security circles.

A judge revealed on Friday that the investigation centered on potential security breaches resulting from the unauthorized disclosure of classified details, jeopardizing sensitive information, intelligence assets, and impeding the objectives of the war in Gaza.

In response to the unfolding events, Netanyahu vehemently denied any involvement of his office in the affair, stating, "No one from the Prime Minister's Office was questioned or arrested."

Reports from the Israeli public broadcaster Kan indicate that the implicated aide, who had been closely advising Netanyahu since the war began, was actively engaged in critical security discussions and had access to highly confidential materials.

However, the aide did not possess the requisite security clearance for his position at the Israeli prime minister office.