Foreign Minister Saar Calls for Serious Consequences Following Mandelblit's Testimony

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that there must be serious consequences following the dramatic testimony of former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in the Netanyahu trial. Saar, a qualified lawyer himself, commented on the testimony after attending a hearing on Sunday.

"I think there must be serious consequences, because ultimately, several very significant things were said by the former Attorney General," Saar said. He elaborated that Mandelblit testified that actions were taken behind his back, without his approval, and that there were both illegal and improper actions.

Saar further noted that Mandelblit's testimony touched upon the factual basis for the bribery charge, which he believes has long since collapsed. He pointed out that Mandelblit stated he had not examined the hundreds of press publications that formed the basis for the indictment, despite being the one who signed it. Saar also mentioned Mandelblit's claim that he was unaware of his signature being forged on the indictment.

"Very serious things happened here," Saar continued, referencing the extensive use of state witnesses in a case he described as not holding water. He stressed that the matter should be considered on its merits, regardless of one's stance on Netanyahu, and questioned how such a situation could occur against a prime minister in a democracy.

Saar concluded by stating that the truth will prevail and that the six-year legal process, nearly a decade since the investigation began, is wearing thin and reflects improper conduct by the investigative and prosecution authorities. He emphasized the importance of attending the proceedings, calling it a significant day for Israeli democracy, as issues have arisen that require genuine and serious examination.