Did Epstein help Israel push for a security deal with Ivory Coast? | Cybersecurity News
Documents Shed Light on Jeffrey Epstein’s Global Connections
The United States Department of Justice has released a new set of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender and financier, sparking widespread controversy and prompting resignations among senior officials and business figures in the U.S. and Europe.
In Africa, the more than three million emails, photographs, and videos released on January 23 are causing ripples as they detail Epstein’s connections with influential African leaders. However, merely being mentioned in the documents does not imply criminal activity.
The latest files indicate ties between Epstein and former South African President Jacob Zuma, Karim Wade, a prominent politician in Senegal, and the late Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe. The documents also highlight Epstein’s relationship with a relative of Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara, raising questions about the nature of their interactions.
Notably, this connection reportedly facilitated Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak’s proposal for a mass surveillance system to Ouattara, aimed at bolstering security in Ivory Coast. It remains unclear whether such a system is currently in use. The partnership reportedly culminated in a formal security agreement in 2014, though details about the arrangement are sparse.
The revelations illustrate the extent of Epstein’s influence over powerful figures across various continents. Epstein was first convicted in 2008 on sex trafficking charges and was found dead in his prison cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on related charges. His former partner, Ghislaine Maxwell, was convicted and sentenced in 2021.
Background on Ivory Coast and Israel Relations
Discussions between Ouattara and Barak reportedly began in mid-2012, following Ouattara’s visit to Jerusalem to meet with Israeli leaders. This visit occurred shortly after an unsuccessful coup attempt against Ouattara’s government.
During the political turmoil, Ouattara’s predecessor, Laurent Gbagbo, had refused to relinquish power, leading to a civil war that resulted in at least 3,000 deaths. The conflict concluded in 2011 after international intervention.
The released documents indicate that Ouattara’s son and niece met with Epstein in New York during this period, although the specifics of their conversations are not documented. Additionally, the files suggest that Keita, a former model and friend of Epstein, played a role in connecting him with high-ranking Ivorian officials.
A month following Ouattara’s Jerusalem visit, an Israeli delegation traveled to Abidjan, where discussions centered on Israeli defense systems to enhance security in Ivory Coast.
Proposal for Security Deal
Following the initial discussions, Ivorian Interior Minister Hamed Bakayoko traveled to Tel Aviv to meet with Barak regarding a cybersecurity agreement. In spring 2013, Barak, no longer serving as defense minister, visited Abidjan for a second meeting with Ouattara, during which he proposed a comprehensive security plan valued at $150 million. This proposal included various security measures as well as the establishment of a surveillance center.
Despite some enthusiasm from Ouattara, the deal ultimately did not materialize due to financial considerations. Barak later denied claims of establishing an intelligence network in Ivory Coast, characterizing the discussions as private and of no public interest.
Continued Diplomatic Ties
While the proposed security arrangement was rejected, diplomatic relations between Israel and Ivory Coast continued to develop. Notably, in June 2014, then-Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman visited Abidjan with a delegation of business leaders, leading to the signing of two agreements related to defense and consultation between the nations. The details of these agreements remain undisclosed.
The security relationship has persisted, with Ivory Coast purchasing military assets from Israeli firms. Reports suggest potential violations of international arms embargoes connected to transactions involving Israeli companies.
Epstein’s Influence on African Leadership
These documents also expose Epstein’s connections to various African leaders, including:
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Jacob Zuma: The files reveal that Epstein organized a dinner for Zuma in London in 2010. The purpose of this gathering remains unclear.
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Karim Wade: Epstein’s relationship with the son of Senegal’s former president began in 2010. Notably, following Wade’s conviction on corruption charges, Epstein reportedly communicated with European officials about potential legal appeals on Wade’s behalf.
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Robert Mugabe: Correspondence from 2015 indicates Epstein considered approaching Mugabe to discuss Zimbabwe’s economic challenges, including proposals for a new currency during a period of hyperinflation.
The contents of these documents underscore the extensive and diverse connections Epstein maintained with global leaders, further complicating the narrative surrounding his legacy.
