An image of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu talking on his phone has sparked a digital whirlwind of questions and speculations.
The image, reportedly captured in an underground parking garage at the Knesset in Jerusalem, showed Netanyahu on a call while leaning against his black luxury vehicle. Netanyahu’s smartphone with its camera lenses and sensors were crudely obscured by thick red tape.
Why was his phone camera covered with red tape?
The image, which racked up over 1 lakh views online, drew speculations and concerns from many over why the lenses would be covered in that manner. According to American outlet Hypefresh, the red sticker is a routine security measure applied by Israeli officials in restricted government areas.
Personnel place these tamper-evident seals on devices upon entry to classified zones, physically blocking the lenses to prevent any intentional or accidental recording of sensitive information.
The design reportedly ensures that any attempt to remove it leaves visible damage, enforcing strict no-photography rules common in high-security environments worldwide.
Similar stickers have reportedly appeared on Netanyahu’s phones in past photos, confirming this as standard protocol.
Clash Report also claimed that the move was “highly likely done as a security measure to prevent spying or recording in sensitive areas.”
What phone does Netanyahu use?
Sharing the photo, a netizen also asked Grok to verify what phone Netanyahu uses. Answering the user’s query Grok said “Based on available information until 2026, there are a few data points regarding the personal device that Netanyahu uses. But some reports suggest he is using an iPhone [just like his assistant, whose phone was hacked].”
Israel’s own tryst with spying allegations
Israel has faced its own share of spying and surveillance allegations, most notably linked to the use of advanced surveillance technologies developed by Israeli firms.
The most prominent example is the Pegasus spyware, created by Israel-based NSO Group, which has been accused by governments, journalists, and human rights organisations of being used to monitor journalists, activists, political opponents, and even heads of state across multiple countries.
Within Israel itself, reports in 2022 alleged that police had used spyware tools to surveil Israeli citizens, including activists and public officials, without proper warrants, triggering public outrage and official investigations.
While Israeli authorities have said such tools are meant strictly for counter-terrorism and serious crime, the controversies have raised broader concerns about privacy, oversight, and the balance between national security and civil liberties.