Ofer Golan joins Eli Feldstein and Ari Rosenfeld in the leaked docs disaster– Here's what you need to know

The investigation into classified documents leaked to German media has expanded significantly as Ofer Golan, Prime Minister Netanyahu's chief spokesman, was brought in for questioning by Lahav 433, Israel's elite police unit, authorities confirmed Monday.

State prosecutors requested Golan's questioning after evidence emerged suggesting his prior knowledge of classified documents that were leaked to German newspaper Bild during critical hostage negotiations. The leak, which revealed sensitive intelligence about Hamas's negotiation strategies, allegedly aimed to influence public opinion against a potential hostage deal.

Jonathan Urich, another senior Netanyahu advisor, also returned today to complete testimony that began in November, deepening the probe's reach into the prime minister's inner circle.

The investigation first gained public attention with the arrest of Eli Feldstein, a former spokesperson in Netanyahu's office who joined the media team shortly after the October war began. Feldstein faces charges of disclosing confidential information that potentially compromised national security and hostage negotiations.

Last week, military reservist Ari Rosenfeld, initially known only as "Sergeant A," was released to house arrest after four months in detention. Rosenfeld, a former intelligence officer from Jerusalem with American roots, allegedly sent classified documents via Telegram to Feldstein, believing Netanyahu needed direct access to the information. The Tel Aviv District Court set his bond at ₪50,000 and prohibited contact with other suspects.

The case has sparked intense debate about the balance between national security and transparency. Sixty-two ministers and Knesset members, along with Israel's Chief Rabbis, have appealed to President Herzog regarding Rosenfeld's treatment, while critics argue the leaks endangered both security operations and hostage negotiations during a critical period.

Rosenfeld's supporters view him as a whistleblower acting out of misguided duty rather than malice. However, the expanding investigation into Netanyahu's communications team raises questions about potential political motivations behind the leaks, which occurred during intense public pressure for a hostage agreement following Hamas executions.

The case has broader implications for how Israel handles classified information, particularly during crisis periods, and highlights tensions between military protocol, political communication, and media relations. As the investigation widens to include more senior figures from Netanyahu's office, it also raises questions about oversight and security protocols within the prime minister's inner circle.

This investigation remains active, with more developments expected as prosecutors continue their probe into one of Israel's most sensitive security breaches during wartime.

Israel Hayom contributed to this article.