Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Mar 15: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lodged a police complaint against former Israel Security Agency (ISA) chief Nadav Argaman, accusing him of attempted extortion using "criminal organization methods."

The complaint follows Argaman’s Thursday night television interview, where he hinted that he would reveal sensitive information if he concluded Netanyahu was acting unlawfully. While Argaman emphasized that he withheld details to preserve the ISA-prime minister relationship, he assured that any information concerning national security would be disclosed lawfully.

Netanyahu, in his complaint to Israeli police chief Daniel Levi, accused Argaman of making threats akin to mafia tactics. He further claimed that the alleged extortion was part of a larger campaign against him, involving current ISA chief Ronen Bar.

“The sole goal is to try to prevent me from making the decisions necessary to rehabilitate the ISA after its searing failure on October 7,” Netanyahu stated, referring to the Hamas attack in southern Israel. “Let it be clear: criminal threats in mafia style will not deter me.”

The ISA rejected the accusations against Bar, stating that the agency remains committed to national security and efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Tensions between Netanyahu and the ISA have been rising since the October 7 attack, with disputes over security failures, classified leaks, and alleged political interference. Netanyahu’s critics claim his actions are aimed at political survival, while his supporters argue that security officials are attempting to undermine his leadership.

Israeli police have confirmed that the investigation and intelligence department has been tasked with reviewing Argaman’s statements.