Investigation into Israeli National Security Council Chief Tzachi Hanegbi
Israeli National Security Council chief Tzachi Hanegbi is under investigation for allegedly receiving a bribe of 10,000 shekels (approximately $2,677) in exchange for a letter of recommendation. This allegation, reported by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, marks Hanegbi as the third individual within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's inner circle to face corruption allegations in recent days. The Movement for Quality Governance, an independent organization focused on exposing government corruption, has called for Hanegbi's immediate suspension until the investigation is resolved.
Hanegbi has denied the accusations, attributing them to a civil dispute between businessmen and claiming that the allegations were previously published two years ago. The investigation suggests that a contractor solicited Hanegbi for a recommendation letter, which was allegedly facilitated through a third party for the mentioned sum.
Broader Concerns of Corruption in Netanyahu's Administration
The scrutiny of Hanegbi follows a recent investigation into Environmental Protection Minister Idit Salman, who has also been accused of corruption. Reports indicate that Salman exploited her ministerial position to hire individuals with financial influence in return for electoral support and misused ministry funds for personal gain. Since her appointment, numerous senior officials have exited her office, and there are claims of her husband’s undue influence over her role.
Additionally, writer Zvi Barel has highlighted the troubling dynamics within Netanyahu's administration, alleging that close associates have leaked sensitive security information to foreign media. Barel criticized the administration for fostering a “corrupt circle” that prioritizes personal loyalty to Netanyahu over national interests, further complicating the political landscape in Israel.
