Ex-AG Mandelblit's Past Statements Resurface Ahead of Netanyahu Trial Testimony

Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit is set to testify in the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, prompting a review of his past controversial statements and recordings. These remarks, made during internal discussions and in leaked recordings, highlight his frustrations and criticisms regarding the investigations into Netanyahu's affairs.

In a July 2016 meeting with police and prosecution officials, Mandelblit expressed strong reservations about the scope of the investigation, particularly concerning the "Case 2000" and allegations of accepting significant gifts, which he referred to as "the iceberg." He explicitly stated that investigators were pursuing matters he had not authorized, emphasizing a need to focus only on the three specific issues he had permitted. Mandelblit also voiced disappointment with the evidence presented regarding gifts like cigars and champagne, questioning the justification for a criminal investigation into events from a decade prior.

Mandelblit detailed his initial reliance on intelligence from Sani Sneilavich and recordings, and his direction to investigators to speak with Ari Harow, but noted that significant information did not emerge. He criticized the transcription of recordings, which he felt created a false impression, and declared that the broad suspicion had evaporated, using the phrase "the iceberg collapsed." Despite this, he permitted further investigation into a wider system of benefits.

The defense in Netanyahu's trial argues that these statements prove the police exceeded their authority without the Attorney General's explicit consent. The prosecution, however, contends that Mandelblit's remarks were taken out of context and that he had specifically requested a thorough examination of the gift case.

Further controversy arose from leaked recordings in October 2020, where Mandelblit expressed frustration with then-State Attorney Shai Nitzan over delays in closing a case against him, accusing Nitzan of intentionally hindering him. Mandelblit consistently denied any external pressure, asserting his decisions were based solely on professional considerations, while Nitzan denied any improper pressure.

On November 21, 2019, Mandelblit announced the indictment of Prime Minister Netanyahu in Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000 for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He described the decision as made "with a heavy heart, but with a whole heart," emphasizing it was a necessary step under the rule of law based on the evidence, not a political act. He also publicly refuted claims of a "governmental coup" or fabricated charges, stating there was no bias in the investigations.

Mandelblit's upcoming testimony is expected to focus on whether the police's investigative authorizations were legally sound and conducted within permitted boundaries. The judges will ultimately determine the legal significance of his past statements and testimony.