Haaretz: Dodik gave $840,000 to Israeli lawyer to get US sanctions lifted

The lobbying contract, signed by Dodik's chief of staff, outlines efforts to establish and promote dialogue between Republika Srpska and the incoming administration of Donald Trump, aiming to improve relations with the United States. The agreement specifies a payment of $840,000 to Zell's firm, with an additional bonus contingent upon the successful lifting of sanctions against Dodik and former Republika Srpska President Zeljka Cvijanovic, now a member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina. ​
Dodik, known for his secessionist and pro-Russian stances, has been under U.S. sanctions due to actions deemed as undermining the stability and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Recently, the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina issued an international arrest warrant for Dodik following his conviction for refusing to implement decisions of the High Representative in BiH. ​

Last week, Dodik traveled to Israel to attend a conference on antisemitism organized by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs. However, reports indicate that he left the conference shortly after arriving and did not participate in the main sessions. Sources suggest he was politely asked to leave the event. ​

The Israeli Ministry of Justice has declined to comment on whether Bosnia and Herzegovina has submitted an extradition request for Dodik. Both countries are signatories to the European Convention on Extradition, which obligates member states to extradite individuals facing charges, with certain exceptions, Haaretz reported.