There has been somewhat of a storm in recent days surrounding leaks from cabinet meetings. Minister Naftali Bennet, who stands accused by some as the source of the leaks, insists he is not the source and he is calling on all members of the cabinet to take a polygraph exam. While most of the cabinet members have agreed, there are some ministers who are refusing while others are not revealing how they feel.

The fury surrounds a leak regarding Israel’s response to the launching of incendiary devices from Gaza toward Israel. A Hadashot TV report on Sunday said IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot pushed back against Bennett’s call to directly target Palestinians flying burning kites and balloons, saying it would be immoral to use lethal fire against them.

Yediot Achronot probed the matter, seeking to determine which ministers are willing to take the exam and which are refusing. Nine of the ministers are fine with taking the lie detector exam.

Minister Aryeh Deri is fine with the exam, and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked explains if everyone is taking the test, she too is fine with it. Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon supports the move, and Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan is okay with it too, providing everyone is compelled to take it, including all persons who are present during cabinet meetings. This refers to the paid professionals who are not elected to their posts including but not limited to the Cabinet Secretary and Chief of Staff.

Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz is opposed, stating it is not fitting for cabinet ministers, insisting his opposition is in principle, not because he is leaking information. He adds his position is in line with the position of Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit on the matter.

Minister of Jerusalem Affairs Ze’ev Elkin refused to state if he would agree to be tested, adding, “It is just a shame what happens with leaks from the cabinet and this is my opinion”.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has also refrained from responding. The Prime Minister was accused by Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid of leaking information pertaining to cabinet meetings during Operation Protective Edge in 2014. Tourism Minister Yariv Levin came to Mr. Netanyahu’s defense.

Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman blames Minister Naftali Bennet, who attacked IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-General Gadi Eizenkott, blaming him for the leaks.

The matter has resulted in accusation and denials, and the polygraph exam may be the only way to put the matter of leaking confidential information to the media to rest.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)