Professors Sue to Halt Public Funding for Discharged Military Prosecutor's Defense

A group of Israeli professors has filed a petition with the High Court of Justice demanding an immediate halt to public funding for the legal defense of a discharged military prosecutor, Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi. The petitioners, associated with the National Resilience Professors' Forum, argue that the state should cease covering her legal representation, which is provided by active reservist military lawyers, and even seek reimbursement for funds already spent.

The core of the petition highlights that Tomer-Yerushalmi was dismissed from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) following her admission to authorizing the release of a "cooked" video from the Gaza border to the media. This video, which allegedly falsely depicted Israeli soldiers as committing sexual assault against a Hamas operative, caused significant diplomatic, security, and reputational damage to Israel and sparked international antisemitism. Despite her dismissal on May 26, 2026, the IDF's response to the petitioners indicated that she continues to be represented by reservist lawyers funded by the public, with no clear information on the total cost.

The petitioners contend that continuing to fund her defense after her discharge is an abuse of public resources, violates equality principles, and undermines public trust in legal authorities. They argue that there is no legal basis for the state to continue funding her defense, especially since the relevant investigation has concluded and no active military court proceedings are underway. They also allege a "VIP track" for senior officials, contrasting it with the limited legal support often available to junior soldiers.

Furthermore, the petition raises concerns about transparency, questioning the criteria for granting such public funding and demanding that the Military Advocate General's Corps disclose these rules. The petitioners point out the apparent lack of transparency, noting the IDF's inability to provide figures on the total cost of the reservist lawyers' compensation. They are seeking an interim order to immediately stop the funding until the court reaches a decision, warning that delaying the ruling could make any future reimbursement impossible.

This legal challenge is part of a broader dispute over the financial implications of Tomer-Yerushalmi's dismissal. The petitioners also note that she reportedly retains rights to a substantial monthly budget pension and has independent financial means from her retirement terms, suggesting she should bear her own legal costs.