By Micah Jonah, February 19, 2026
An investigative report has revealed that Israeli officials coordinated the installation of security equipment at a Manhattan apartment building linked to late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, reportedly for the use of former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak.
According to findings published by Drop Site News, the Israeli government, through its permanent mission to the United Nations, worked directly with Epstein’s staff beginning in early 2016 to secure a residence at 301 East 66th Street in Manhattan. Barak, who served as Israel’s prime minister from 1999 to 2001, is said to have frequently stayed at the apartment.
Emails recently released by the United States Department of Justice reportedly show that Israeli security personnel installed surveillance systems and controlled access to the property. Under Israeli law, former prime ministers are entitled to state-funded security after leaving office.
The correspondence indicates that Rafi Shlomo, a former director of protective services at Israel’s UN mission and head of Barak’s security detail, oversaw access control at the residence. He reportedly conducted background checks on staff and coordinated installation of alarm systems and surveillance equipment.
In one exchange, Barak’s wife, Nili Priell, discussed security features including window sensors and remote access capabilities with Epstein’s longtime associate Lesley Groff. Emails suggested that structural changes required Epstein’s authorisation, which he reportedly granted.
The relationship between Barak and Epstein has been controversial since Epstein’s arrest and subsequent death in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Barak has previously acknowledged maintaining a personal and business relationship with Epstein for several years but has expressed regret over the association and denied knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activities at the time.
The revelations have reignited political tensions in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cited the newly released documents in criticising Barak, arguing that the connection reflects on the former premier rather than the state itself.
The report also references other Israeli officials who allegedly had ties to the Manhattan property during various visits to New York.
While the documents do not allege criminal wrongdoing by Israeli state institutions, they highlight the extent of operational coordination between Israeli diplomatic security services and an individual later convicted of serious crimes.
The disclosures are likely to intensify scrutiny of past associations with Epstein, whose network of high-profile contacts has remained under global examination since the release of extensive investigative records by US authorities.
