### Netanyahu Faces Scandal Over Alleged Leaks Amid Hostage Crisis

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was at the center of a growing controversy Monday, implicated in a scandal involving one of his aides and suspected leaks of classified documents. Critics argue the leaks may have undermined efforts to free hostages held by Hamas, potentially for political gain.

The incident came to light after an Israeli court loosened a gag order Sunday night, revealing that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) had launched an investigation into the illegal acquisition of sensitive intelligence from IDF systems. The central figure in the case is Eliezer Feldstein, identified by Israeli media as one of Netanyahu's media advisers.

Reports indicate that the leaked information was the basis for articles on Hamas' approach to the hostage situation, including one from the London-based Jewish Chronicle, which was retracted after facing backlash. Another article by the German newspaper Bild suggested that Hamas was prolonging cease-fire talks as a psychological tactic against Israel. The timing and content of these articles have raised suspicions about their intent to politically shield Netanyahu amidst stalled cease-fire negotiations.

Critics and hostage families have expressed profound outrage, alleging that Netanyahu jeopardized national security and the lives of hostages to sustain his hardline stance. The Hostage and Missing Families Forum expressed "outrage and deep concern" over the allegations, whereas political opponents have called for accountability. Benny Gantz, who resigned from Netanyahu's war Cabinet in June, condemned the possible exploitation of sensitive information for political survival as a "national crime."

Netanyahu’s office has denied any wrongdoing, claiming the prime minister learned about the leaked documents from the media and that the implicated aide had no access to classified information. Nonetheless, opposition leader Yair Lapid rejected these claims, suggesting that if Netanyahu was unaware of his aides’ actions, it raises questions about his awareness and control.

For individuals already skeptical of Netanyahu's intentions, this scandal adds weight to accusations that the prime minister has manipulated sensitive information for political ends, particularly in the context of the ongoing hostage crisis and cease-fire negotiations.