The Knesset plenum opened on Wednesday its debate over Likud MK Tally Gotliv’s request for immunity from criminal prosecution, after the Knesset Committee voted on Monday to grant it. The final decision will now be made by the full plenum.
In the committee, lawmakers held two separate votes on the request. One argued that the alleged act was carried out as part of Gotliv’s parliamentary duties, and the other claimed the indictment was filed in bad faith. In both votes, 11 MKs supported immunity and three opposed it.
Gotliv has been charged with revealing and publishing classified information, an offense under the Shin Bet law. The law carries a sentence of up to three years in prison for anyone who discloses or publishes classified material without authorization.
The immunity at issue is substantive immunity, which covers actions and statements made in the course of an MK’s duties. It cannot be revoked and continues to protect an MK even after leaving office.
