Netanyahu Aide Eli Feldstein Indicted for Leaking Classified Information; Faces Life Term, Detention Extended Amid Hamas Security Concerns

Nov 23, 2024, 04:37 PM

Israel's State Prosecutor has filed an indictment against Eli Feldstein, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and an IDF reservist for allegedly leaking classified information. The charges, which could result in a life sentence, accuse Feldstein of compromising state security in connection with a document leak that aimed to alleviate public pressure on Netanyahu regarding a ceasefire-for-hostage deal with Hamas. Following the indictment, a court extended Feldstein's detention until next Wednesday. In response to the allegations, Netanyahu released a nine-minute video defending Feldstein, asserting that he is a patriot who would not intentionally jeopardize Israel's security. Netanyahu characterized the situation as a 'witch hunt' against him and emphasized his belief in Feldstein's integrity.