Watchdog Group to Sue IDF Over Funding for Disgraced Officer's Defense
The 'If This Is You' (Im Tirtzu) movement is preparing to file a lawsuit demanding transparency regarding the funding for the legal defense of a disgraced former female officer, referred to as the "Fatzarit." The group has been attempting to obtain this information from the military for months, citing the public's right to know how taxpayer money is being used.
Alon Schwarzer, head of research and policy at Im Tirtzu, stated that their requests for information began in November 2025, after the scandal involving the officer broke. They sought details on who approved the funding, the procedures for selecting defense attorneys, and whether this preferential treatment, including the use of top legal professionals, is available to all soldiers facing legal action. Schwarzer emphasized that the information requested was not classified and should be publicly accessible.
The military initially delayed responding, prompting Im Tirtzu to file a complaint with the Freedom of Information Unit in the Ministry of Justice. This unit determined that the IDF had acted contrary to the Freedom of Information Law by failing to provide a response. Despite this finding, the IDF has not yet complied.
Im Tirtzu argues that the public has a right to know the costs associated with defending an officer who acted against the law and caused significant harm to national security. They are seeking to compel the IDF to release the details through administrative court. Schwarzer noted that if the IDF continues to obstruct the release of information, they may escalate the matter to the High Court of Justice.
Schwarzer also pointed out that recent reports indicate the IDF Chief of Staff has already released 90% of the officer's frozen funds. This raises the possibility that the officer may be required to repay substantial sums to cover her legal representation, especially given the high caliber of her legal team, which is not standard for all soldiers in legal proceedings.
