During the war: Netanyahu's adviser asked ChatGPT how to whitewash Qatar's image

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's adviser Yonatan Urich, a figure in the "Qatargate" affair, asked ChatGPT in September 2024 to develop a strategy for improving Qatar's image. Channel 12 Keshet published fragments of Urich's interrogation, in which the investigator presented his correspondence with the chatbot. Urich did not deny the requests but said he did not use them. The publication drew sharp criticism from the opposition and from the families of the hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's adviser Yonatan Urich, who is a suspect in the "Qatargate" affair, asked ChatGPT in September 2024, already during the war, to develop a strategy for improving Qatar's image. On the evening of 12 October, Channel 12 Keshet published fragments of Urich's interrogation, in which the investigator presented his correspondence with the chatbot. In the request, Urich asked for ideas on improving the image of the prime minister and the emir of Qatar, as well as three main messages for Israeli citizens, Jewish communities and opinion leaders in the United States. Urich did not deny the fact of the requests, but said he did not remember them and did not use the results. He also added ironically that he asked ChatGPT where to relieve himself in a public toilet. The publication drew sharp criticism from the opposition. Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot called Urich a "Qatari agent" in the prime minister's office. Avigdor Lieberman called for an investigation on suspicion of treason. The families of the hostages also expressed outrage. The article explains the essence of the "Qatargate" affair: suspicions of receiving money from Qatar in exchange for PR services and the promotion of its interests, including after 7 October 2023.