Subhead: Thousands of pages reveal frequent correspondence, logistical coordination, and family contacts between the ex-premier and the convicted sex offender.
Body:
Newly released U.S. Justice Department files from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation have unveiled extensive and detailed connections between the convicted sex offender and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. The documents, part of a massive release of over 3 million pages, include more than 4,000 records mentioning Barak, going beyond previously known associations.
The correspondence shows a relationship spanning years, including:
- Frequent logistical coordination for Barak’s visits to Epstein’s New York apartments, handled by Epstein’s assistant and Barak’s wife, Nili Priel. Emails discuss timing, technical arrangements, and even requests for apartment cleaning.
- Direct communication between Epstein and Barak’s family. Priel corresponded with Epstein about travel plans, while Barak’s son, Nimrod, sought and received Epstein’s help with a successful application to New York University in 2010.
- Ongoing personal and professional contact. Emails show Barak sending Epstein birthday and holiday greetings, links to his interviews, and discussions about potential business deals.
While Barak has long acknowledged knowing Epstein—introduced by former President Shimon Peres in 2003—he has insisted the relationship was « proper. » He has stated he visited Epstein’s homes but never attended parties and never saw women or girls present. Barak also confirmed a brief visit to Epstein’s Caribbean island but said it was years after alleged misconduct occurred.
However, the depth and routine nature of the coordination revealed in the documents have drawn significant scrutiny in Israel. A 2016 photo of Barak leaving Epstein’s Manhattan apartment discreetly dressed, and a prior Wall Street Journal report stating the two met at least 30 times between 2013-2017, have fueled questions.
Context: Epstein was convicted in 2008 for soliciting a minor and was arrested again in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges before dying by suicide in jail. His associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, is now serving a 20-year sentence.
The document release, mandated by Congress, includes numerous high-profile names. U.S. authorities note that mere mention in the files does not imply wrongdoing or suspicion. The records pertaining to Barak largely detail coordination and communication, not alleged criminal activity. Nevertheless, they paint a comprehensive picture of an enduring, familiar connection between a leading statesman and a man later exposed as a serial sexual predator.