Ex-AG Mandelblit Testifies in Netanyahu Corruption Trial

Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit is set to testify as a defense witness in the corruption trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Jerusalem District Court. This appearance comes exactly seven years after Mandelblit announced his decision to indict Netanyahu in the "Cases of the Thousand." Mandelblit will be questioned by Netanyahu's defense lawyers, Amit Haddad and Noa Milstein, regarding the legality of investigative actions and oral approvals granted during the investigation.

The defense's central argument is that critical investigative steps were taken before Mandelblit's official approval or that the police exceeded their authorized boundaries. A key point of contention is the manner in which approvals were granted, with the defense alleging that original approvals were not documented in writing but given orally during internal meetings, with only minutes recorded by the Justice Ministry. The judges have previously criticized the lack of real-time documentation.

Mandelblit will face questioning over seven non-consecutive days, just weeks before the upcoming Knesset elections. The prosecution maintains that all necessary approvals were legally given, even if not formally written. One significant area of focus will be Case 1000, the "Gifts Affair," concerning allegations that Netanyahu received benefits from businessmen like Arnon Milchan. The defense seeks to clarify whether the investigation in this case adhered to Mandelblit's guidelines.

The prosecution has previously presented excerpts from internal protocols, arguing that Mandelblit's statements were presented partially and that a full reading shows he explicitly demanded thorough investigation. After the defense concludes its cross-examination, the prosecution will question Mandelblit to refute claims of significant procedural flaws.

Mandelblit's testimony today follows the court's rejection of his request to postpone his appearance until November, citing his role as dean of the law faculty at Ramat Gan Academic College and the need to prepare for the academic year. The judges found insufficient justification for the delay at this stage. Mandelblit's decision to indict Netanyahu in November 2019 on three main charges, Case 1000 (gifts), Case 2000 (media agreements), and Case 4000 (Bezeq-Walla affair), marked a significant moment. While Netanyahu denies all charges, his lawyers allege severe distortions and failures by law enforcement. Mandelblit's testimony as a defense witness is a legal highlight, though its ultimate significance will be determined by the judges.