In July 2024, Yonatan Urich, a senior advisor and personal media consultant to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, held at least two significant meetings with high-ranking Qatari official Ali al-Thawadi, according to reports from N12. This revelation stems from testimony Urich presented to investigators with Lahav 433 in May 2025.
Details of Meetings Involving Urich and Qatari Officials
N12 identified Ali al-Thawadi as a key figure within the Qatari leadership, closely associated with the Qatari emir. Notably, one of these meetings included Urich’s business associate, Yisrael “Srulik” Einhorn, and lobbyist Jay Footlik, with whom Urich has previously denied having any prior relationship. The nature of these meetings has raised questions about their purpose and the discussions that transpired between the parties involved.
During his interrogation, investigators inquired about testimony from a former Mossad official known as S., who claimed that both Urich and Einhorn met Thawadi multiple times. The investigator’s questioning was direct: “According to S.’s testimony, there were two meetings with Thawadi at which you and Srulik presented your ideas. What transpired during those discussions?” Urich maintained that he had no recollection of discussing any proposals at those meetings.
Urich’s Testimony and Responses
Despite the weight of S.’s allegations, Urich refrained from accusing him of falsehood. He merely stated that he could not recall the specifics of the meetings and expressed a need to “jog his memory.” Throughout the questioning, Urich’s position remained consistent; he could not remember the timing or location of the meetings in question.
When pressed about the timing of the meetings occurring post-October 7, Urich responded with a noncommittal, “If you say so.” This response has been interpreted as an attempt to navigate the sensitive nature of the discussions without directly contradicting the evidence presented against him.
Urich’s Ongoing Controversies and Responses to Leaks
The meetings with Thawadi were not part of an official capacity representing Israel, as previously stated by Netanyahu, who asserted that Urich did not disclose his connections to Qatar or the details of those meetings. Recently, Urich disclosed that his WhatsApp account had been hacked, further complicating the situation. He vowed that those responsible for leaking his private conversations would “pay the full price,” signaling his determination to address any unauthorized breaches of privacy.
In a statement shared via social media, Urich emphasized that anyone who disseminates messages from the hacked account may face criminal repercussions, which could include personal lawsuits. Reports from the Israeli media suggest that the leaked conversations cover various political issues, law matters, and political consulting discussions.
The Broader Implications of the “Qatargate” Investigation
Urich now finds himself entangled in the ongoing “Qatargate” investigation, which addresses allegations of corruption involving the Prime Minister’s Office and the influence of Qatari officials. This case examines the purported sway held by individuals linked to Qatar in shaping political narratives and decisions within Israel, further adding layers to an already complex political landscape.
As the investigation continues, scrutiny surrounding both the “Qatargate” and its implications for the broader Israeli political sphere is expected to intensify, particularly concerning key figures such as Urich and Netanyahu. The outcomes of these inquiries may have lasting impacts on their political futures and the diplomatic relations between Israel and Qatar.