Health Ministry Advisor Denies Wrongdoing Amid Leaked Investigation Materials
Moti Babchik, a former advisor to the Health Minister, has vehemently denied all allegations of wrongdoing, calling them "baseless" and a recycled attempt to discredit him. The investigation, which began a decade ago, was reportedly closed in 2023, only to be "resurrected" against the economic department's stance, according to Babchik's response. He asserts that the entire investigation relies on selective leaks of confidential materials during a pre-hearing process, intended to influence the prosecution's decision. Babchik stated that his work involved meeting numerous lobbyists and representatives, including Erez Gilar, as was standard practice, and these meetings did not indicate special closeness.
Regarding food labeling reforms and drug pricing, Babchik maintained that discussions with industry figures were normal and conducted under the direction of then-Minister Yaakov Litzman. He also refuted claims of attempting to thwart Professor Dina Ben-Yehuda's appointment to the Health Basket Committee, stating that the matter was investigated and no evidence was found. Prof. Ben-Yehuda herself reportedly told investigators she chose not to continue due to her new role as dean, not due to any action by Babchik, and that she did not know him.
The response also addressed allegations of leaking information, claiming that documents reviewed during the pre-hearing process contained no secret or confidential information and were later published. It suggests that information from a meeting may have reached Pharma Israel through other channels. Former Health Ministry Director-General Moshe Bar Siman Tov reportedly stated that while it's preferable to avoid sharing discussion summaries, he did not classify it as illegal conduct.
Responses from other parties involved, including Roche, Menachem Gashaid, and Erez Gilar, largely echoed the sentiment that investigations against them were closed due to lack of evidence, and that their activities were conducted in a standard and legitimate manner. Philip Morris also denied claims of benefiting from exemptions for its IQOS product, stating it operates within legal and ethical guidelines. The Health Ministry emphasized that policy initiatives like food labeling and drug pricing were driven by professional staff to protect public health, despite commercial pressures, and that the work of the Health Basket Committee was exemplary. The State Prosecution stated that all claims are being examined during the ongoing pre-hearing process, while the Israel Police expressed regret over attempts to create a false narrative and vowed to pursue justice.
