Netanyahu’s adviser 'used' ChatGPT to improve Qatar’s image in Israel

An Israeli report has revealed that Yonatan Urich, a close adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, allegedly sought advice from ChatGPT on how to improve Qatar’s image among Israeli citizens, Jewish communities worldwide, and influential figures in the United States.

According to a report by Israeli broadcaster Channel 12, Urich asked the AI tool to prepare three separate drafts of messages targeting Israeli citizens, Jewish communities around the world, and influential American figures.

The revelation emerged after excerpts from Urich’s interrogation in the Qatargate scandal investigation became public. Investigators reportedly showed him correspondence obtained by the police during the inquiry.

The Qatargate investigation is also examining allegations that Urich and several other figures close to Netanyahu received illegal payments from sources linked to Qatar to improve the country’s image in Israel. Investigators are looking into possible offences, including bribery, contact with a foreign agent, and money laundering.

According to the report, Netanyahu’s adviser also sought additional suggestions from ChatGPT on how to improve the public image of Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Despite being shown the correspondence during questioning, Urich denied all the allegations.

Commenting on his alleged use of ChatGPT, he said he could not remember what he had asked the AI tool, explaining that he regularly used it to ask questions about various subjects.

Urich also maintained that he had played no role in Qatar’s dealings with the media, the public, or the prime minister in Israel.

Following the report, Israeli politician Gadi Eisenkot criticised Netanyahu, arguing that retaining Urich within the prime minister’s inner circle was questionable while the Qatargate investigation remained ongoing.

Eisenkot described the matter as an influence operation against Israeli citizens and a form of psychological warfare.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also described Qatargate as one of the most serious treason scandals in Israel’s history. He alleged that those who sought to improve Qatar’s image from within the prime minister’s office during wartime were effectively working in Qatar’s interests.

What Is the Qatargate scandal?

The Qatargate scandal emerged in March 2025 and has been described as a major political and corruption scandal in Israel.

The allegations centre on claims that advisers to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu received bribes and funding from the Qatari government to promote a pro-Qatar narrative in Israel while conducting a campaign against Egypt.

As part of the investigation, Netanyahu’s close adviser Yonatan Urich and former spokesperson Eli Feldstein were arrested by Israeli police and the Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency. The allegations under investigation included bribery, money laundering, and activities potentially affecting national security.

Tweet by The Jerusalem Post