Bennett Responds Forcefully to Netanyahu’s Press Conference
Background on the Dispute
The public outcry surrounding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent press conference has intensified, prompting a sharp response from former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. Bennett took to Facebook to address claims made by Netanyahu regarding Qatari funds and their alleged lack of involvement in the Hamas attacks on October 7.
Bennett’s Critique of Netanyahu
In his lengthy response, Bennett contested Netanyahu’s assertion that the financial support channeled to Hamas through Qatar did not aid in the execution of the October 7 atrocities. He stated, “I feel compelled to correct Mr. Netanyahu’s inaccuracies during his press conference.” Bennett emphasized that the approximately $1.5 billion that flowed into Gaza equipped Hamas with lethal weapons and rockets, which were subsequently used against Israeli citizens.
Historical Context of Qatari Funding
Bennett provided an account of the circumstances that led to the influx of Qatari cash into Gaza. He recalled that in 2018, Netanyahu sent a letter to Qatar’s leader requesting a monthly transfer of $30 million to Gaza, motivated by threats from Hamas, which had vowed to launch missile strikes against Israel should the funding cease. “These were akin to protection mstarty, and Mr. Netanyahu sought quiet,” Bennett explained. Beginning in November 2018, Qatar did indeed transfer the funds, with the majority reportedly going directly to Hamas. This offshoot funding allowed Hamas to procure weaponry and construct extensive tunnel networks.
Connection to Recent Events
Bennett asserted that the Qatari financing played a critical role in planning the October 7 attacks as well as the ongoing conflict, referred to as Operation “Iron Swords.” He recalled that on that day, Hamas militants utilized the weapons and equipment funded by these investments to kill approximately 1,200 Israelis. During the subsequent conflict, Hamas effectively employed its tunnel infrastructure to target IDF soldiers.
Changes to Funding Policy
In concluding his post, Bennett reflected on the policy changes he implemented upon assuming the role of Prime Minister in June 2021. He stated, “I established that not a single dollar in cash would go into Hamas.” Despite receiving threats from Hamas to resume missile fire if cash transfers were not made, Bennett remained resolute in his decision, opting instead for a mechanism that would distribute funds directly to needy families in Gaza through purchase cards of $100 each. This approach effectively curtailed the flow of cash to Hamas.
The ongoing debate concerning the impact of foreign financial support on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a significant and contentious issue. As leaders continue to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the stakes for both security and humanitarian conditions in the region remain exceedingly high