Mandelblit's Testimony in Netanyahu Trial Shifts Focus to Prosecution's Conduct

Avichai Mandelblit, the former Attorney General who led the investigations into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is set to testify in Netanyahu's trial. The article frames Mandelblit's testimony not as that of a prosecutor, but as that of a defendant, suggesting the proceedings will scrutinize the prosecution's actions.

The author criticizes the timing of the indictment, claiming it was filed during a significant diplomatic achievement, the Abraham Accords, and on the eve of elections, suggesting a political motive to eliminate a sitting prime minister. The article alleges "negligent, amateurish, and criminal" work by the prosecution, citing illegal wiretaps, biased leaks, and fabricated charges.

Specific accusations include the creation of non-existent offenses like "breach of trust" for relations with journalists and defining positive coverage as bribery. The article contends that the trial has not proven guilt but has instead delegitimized the prosecution system, exposing its alleged political, biased, and criminal conduct.

Mandelblit is expected to struggle during his testimony, potentially denying memory, blaming subordinates like Shi Nitzen and Liat Ben Ari, and downplaying alleged illegal actions as technical errors. The article predicts that Mandelblit will become the focus, with the prosecution system attempting to protect him from legal repercussions, though not from public judgment.