The IDF responded unusually to reports that Maj. Gen. (res.) Yoav (Poly) Mordechai, former Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, head of the Civil Administration and IDF spokesperson, was questioned under caution in the "Qatar-gate" affair on suspicion of accepting bribes. "Without addressing the investigation taking place outside the IDF, Maj. Gen. Mordechai has been in reserve service since the beginning of the war and continues his service," the IDF spokesperson stated. "Maj. Gen. Mordechai reports to the Hostages Command and is fully committed to the Hostages Command. He does not conduct direct negotiations with mediators, but his contribution is extremely significant and at times even critical to the effort. Throughout, his professional positions have been courageous and unbiased and have contributed greatly to the work."