Former Israeli PM Barak responds to criticism over close Epstein links

Al JazeeraEN 4 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera StaffFebruary 13, 2026 at 09:46 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak has expressed regret for his 15-year relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In an interview with Israel's Channel 12, Barak addressed the controversy following the release of new documents related to Epstein. Barak stated he regrets meeting Epstein, whom he was introduced to in 2003 by Shimon Peres, claiming he was unaware of the extent of Epstein's crimes until 2019. He acknowledged maintaining contact with Epstein after his 2008 conviction, including staying at Epstein's Manhattan home and visiting his island. Barak claims that during the time he knew Epstein, he never witnessed any inappropriate behavior.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington 30% Channel 12 40% United States Department of Justice 50% Shimon Peres 60% Israel ×270% Ehud Barak ×690% Jeffrey Epstein ×995%

Keywords

jeffrey epstein 100% ehud barak 90% sex offender 80% relationship 70% child sex crimes 70% procuring a minor for prostitution 60% israeli prime minister 50% conviction 40% shimon peres 40%