US ambassador's adviser embroiled in scandal over request to Israelis

David Milstein, senior adviser to the US ambassador to Israel, has found himself at the center of a scandal after inviting Israeli guests to his wedding and suggesting they give monetary gifts in dollars or shekels. Following an inquiry, he stated that the message was sent by mistake and emphasized that he cannot accept gifts. The incident has raised concerns among security officials.

David Milstein, senior adviser to the US ambassador to Israel, has found himself at the center of a scandal after reaching out to Israeli citizens invited to his wedding. The official, who has access to classified information, suggested that guests give monetary gifts, which could be in US dollars or Israeli shekels. The story drew particular attention due to Milstein's status and his work at the American diplomatic mission in Israel. The possibility of receiving money from citizens of the host country raised counterintelligence concerns, as it involves an employee with access to classified information. After Milstein was asked to explain the incident, he stated that the message about monetary gifts was mistakenly sent to the entire group of invitees. Following this, the adviser sent a new message to guests, emphasizing that he cannot accept gifts. "Please know that we cannot accept gifts of any kind," Milstein told the invitees. The incident has raised concerns among security officials. One intelligence officer described Milstein as "a huge walking warning about counterintelligence risks," specifically noting the unusual nature of the request for monetary gifts.