Israeli Gynecologist Sentenced to 14 Years for Raping Nine Patients

The Tel Aviv District Court sentenced senior gynecologist Professor Menachem Alkalai to 14 years in prison on Thursday for committing ten acts of fraud-related rape against nine patients over an eight-year period. The court also ordered him to pay 920,000 shekels in compensation to the complainants, whose ages range from 23 to 66.

In its ruling, the court stated that Alkalai exploited his position and expertise to engage in illicit sexual contact, exceeding all medical and professional norms. He deliberately massaged the clitoris of each of the nine complainants while inserting his fingers into their vaginas, without their informed consent, under the false pretense that these were legitimate medical procedures. He informed some of the complainants of his intention to massage their clitoris before commencing the acts.

The court emphasized that Alkalai cynically and brazenly betrayed the trust of his patients. It noted that in such sensitive medical procedures, patients place complete trust in their doctor, expecting no harm behind the closed door of the treatment room. This trust is essential for the examination's integrity and the patient's protection.

The ruling also highlighted the broader societal damage caused by Alkalai's actions. The court expressed concern that women might avoid necessary gynecological check-ups due to fear of harm, potentially leading to irreversible medical damage. Furthermore, the actions of doctors who perform their duties honestly could be undermined, as patients might lose trust in the medical profession.