Netanyahu to sue Haaretz over UAE warning allegations

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has initiated defamation proceedings against the newspaper Haaretz following reports alleging he received a warning from the United Arab Emirates prior to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. The reporting, which cites foreign senior sources, claims UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan warned Netanyahu in September that a major operation was being planned.

Netanyahu’s office has denied receiving any such warning, characterizing the report as a “sinister plot.” Haaretz has defended its journalism, stating the legal action is an attempt to silence criticism.

In response to accusations that he was behind the report, exiled Fatah Reform Democratic faction leader Mohammed Dahlan has denied any involvement. Dahlan’s spokesperson described the allegations as an “incitement campaign” by the Likud party intended to divert attention from government failures regarding the October 7 security breach. The legal and political dispute unfolds as Israel approaches general elections on October 27.