Norwegian Diplomat Steps Down Amid Controversy Over Epstein Ties
A prominent Norwegian diplomat, previously active in peace efforts between Israel and Palestine during the 90s, and more recently assigned to Jordan, has resigned. This decision comes in light of ongoing scrutiny regarding her interactions with the infamous Jeffrey Epstein, according to an announcement made by the country's Foreign Ministry.
It was revealed that Epstein had left a significant sum of $10 million in his will to the children of the diplomat and her spouse, just before his suicide in a New York prison in 2019. The shocking revelation led to the diplomat's suspension from her ambassadorial role in Jordan.
Ministerial Response to Resignation
The Foreign Minister declared the diplomat's resignation as both "correct and necessary." He labeled her association with the convicted sex offender as a "serious lapse in judgment," undermining the trust necessary for her role.
Despite her resignation, investigations into the diplomat's extent of knowledge and contact with Epstein will carry on. The diplomat is also anticipated to continue discussions with the ministry to bring clarity to the matter.
A Closer Look at International Peace Institute
Alongside this, the ministry announced a review of its financial support and interactions with the International Peace Institute, a think tank based in New York. The institute was previously under the leadership of the diplomat's husband, who, according to the Foreign Minister, also demonstrated poor judgment in relation to Epstein.
Ripple Effects of Epstein Scandal
The impact of the Epstein scandal has been felt in several countries, with notable figures facing scrutiny over their connections to him. In the UK, the prime minister is facing calls to step down due to the controversy surrounding Epstein and a former British ambassador to Washington. The prime minister had appointed the ambassador despite his known connections to Epstein.
The diplomat at the heart of the current controversy and her husband played key roles in the Oslo Accords, a historic attempt to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the 90s.
National Investigation Launched
Norway's National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime has started an investigation into the diplomat and her husband. The diplomat is suspected of corruption in relation to her position at the Foreign Ministry, while her husband is accused of aiding and abetting the alleged corruption.
The investigation will also examine whether the diplomat received benefits concerning her position. Searches have been carried out at an apartment in Oslo and at a witness's home.
Diplomat's Statement on Epstein Contact
In a recent statement, the diplomat admitted that her initial description of her contact with Epstein as minimal was "imprecise." She clarified that her contact with Epstein stemmed from her husband's relationship with him and she had no independent social or professional relationship with Epstein.
Despite the contact being sporadic and private, she conceded that she should have exercised greater caution.
Other Influential Figures Under Scrutiny
Other notable figures in Norway have also been caught in the Epstein scandal's spotlight. The Crown Princess issued an apology "to all of you whom I have disappointed" as more details of her relationship with Epstein came to light.
A corruption investigation has also been launched into a former Prime Minister, who once presided over the committee awarding the Nobel Peace Prize, over his ties with Epstein. His legal representative has stated that the former Prime Minister will cooperate.