Former Military Advocate General Set to Receive Full Retirement Benefits Amid Escalating Criticism of IDF Chief of Staff

The former Military Advocate General, Tomer Yerushalmi, is reportedly on track to receive full retirement benefits despite ongoing controversy and opposition from the Ministry of Finance. The IDF Chief of Staff has expressed anger toward the Finance Ministry for refusing to release funds for her pension, even though he has decided to grant her full retirement terms, excluding certain increases.

Political commentator Yaakov Bardugo sharply criticized the Chief of Staff’s stance, accusing him of concealing serious information related to the October events and arguing that Yerushalmi should face legal proceedings rather than receive a pension worth tens of millions of shekels. Bardugo questioned why the Chief of Staff directs his frustration at the Finance Ministry instead of addressing the stalled investigation against Yerushalmi.

Bardugo suggested that Yerushalmi possesses sensitive information that threatens senior IDF officials, linking this to the October events and implying a cover-up. He described the situation as a significant risk to Israeli democracy and governance, calling for the Chief of Staff’s dismissal over his handling of the matter. Bardugo also criticized IDF spokesperson Eyal Zamir, asserting that Yerushalmi’s actions involved exposing false accusations against IDF soldiers that gained international attention.

The debate unfolds amid ongoing security challenges for Israel, including conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank, and tensions with Iran. Bardugo expressed frustration that the Chief of Staff is focused on Yerushalmi’s pension rather than these pressing security fronts.

The controversy continues to provoke public debate, with calls for accountability and transparency regarding Yerushalmi’s case and the IDF leadership’s conduct.