Lawyer Criticizes Supreme Court Ruling, Calls Former AG's Testimony Crucial in Netanyahu Trial

Attorney Ilan Bombach, representing the Likud party and serving as deputy chairman of the Central Elections Committee, has strongly criticized a Supreme Court decision that prohibits party representatives at polling stations from transmitting real-time information about voters to their parties. Bombach argued in an interview with Channel 7 that the ruling, issued shortly before elections, is highly problematic and unfairly harms the Likud, which has historically relied on such data for voter mobilization.

The Supreme Court overturned a decision by the Central Elections Committee that had permitted the transfer of voter information. The court stated that a person's arrival at a polling station is private information and that polling station representatives lack the legal authority to transmit it for the purpose of encouraging voters. Bombach contended that the court's timing and reversal of previous stances on the issue create significant difficulties, especially since the Knesset is in recess and cannot pass legislation to address the matter before the elections.

In the same interview, Bombach also addressed the defense team's request to summon former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit to testify in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trial. Bombach emphasized that Mandelblit's testimony is critical, particularly concerning the approvals granted for opening investigations against Netanyahu. He highlighted that the law requires the Attorney General's consent for such investigations, and Mandelblit's testimony could shed light on the scope of approvals, including whether they were initially provided in writing or verbally.

Bombach suggested that Mandelblit's testimony might also address protocols and materials revealed during the trial, including allegations of undue pressure on witnesses and improper investigative actions during Mandelblit's tenure. He questioned why these issues were not investigated at the time. Bombach believes Mandelblit will have to answer many questions and that his testimony is crucial, especially given its proximity to the upcoming elections, which he argues makes it publicly significant.