JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Qatar is transferring substantial sums to ostensibly civilian institutions in Israel, raising concerns among experts over transparency and national security, according to an interview published Monday.

Ran Yishai, head of the Research Department at the Jerusalem Institute for Applied Policy, told Israel National News that Qatari donations flow to universities, hospitals, schools, clinics, and welfare programs, often through opaque channels. He highlighted recent funding for the French Hospital in eastern Jerusalem, reportedly funneled through a Palestinian Authority bank to circumvent Israeli oversight.

Yishai described Qatar as a Muslim Brotherhood-aligned state using financial influence to shape public opinion. While some donations are monitored, he warned that many operate without scrutiny. He criticized Israel for not confronting foreign diplomats involved in such transfers, citing examples including the Turkish, Italian, and British consulates allegedly supporting activities contrary to Israeli interests.

“The distinction between civilian support and backing for terrorism is often blurred,” Yishai said. He cited institutions like Al Jazeera and UNRWA, which appear civilian but, in his view, have ties to organizations suspected of terrorism.

Yishai emphasized that his findings rely on open-source information rather than classified intelligence and urged Israeli policymakers to take action.