On September 11, an unknown Turkish hacker group claimed responsibility for leaking the personal contact details and the cell phone number of Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, along with a screenshot of what appeared to be a brief video call with Katz.
According to multiple media reports, Katz answered the unexpected call but quickly disconnected after being insulted. A screenshot of the video call, along with hostile text messages, later circulated on social media platforms.
In response, Katz posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Organized Islamist-jihadist gangs from various countries around the world are calling my unclassified civilian phone and leaving abusive messages and threats. Let them continue to call and threaten, and I will continue to order the elimination of their terrorist leaders.”
The leak sparked debate in Israel. Critics pointed to lapses in leaders’ personal security practices, while supporters condemned the hackers’ actions.
Thousands of messages were reportedly sent to Katz following the leak of his phone number, though the Israeli officials have not confirmed whether any sensitive military information was compromised.
Cybersecurity experts warn that leaking of private personal data (doxxing ) poses serious risks for individuals, and can escalate harassment or threats. For that reason, this report does not republish any private contact information exposed online.
