Israel Sues Ex-Officer for $320,000 Over Sexual Assaults

Israel has filed a lawsuit seeking approximately 1.19 million shekels (about $320,000) against Ofir Menachem, a former IDF company commander convicted of sexual offenses against two female soldiers under his command. The lawsuit, filed by the Ministry of Defense in the Nazareth Magistrate's Court, aims to compel Menachem to repay public funds allocated as compensation to one of the victims. Prosecutors have described the suit as a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind legal action.

The case involves a soldier who was permanently recognized as a disabled IDF veteran due to the assault. The state is seeking to hold Menachem financially responsible for his actions by having him reimburse the government for payments made due to the victim's injuries. The lawsuit states Menachem exploited his position of authority over his subordinates, breaching his duty of trust and public confidence in the IDF to satisfy his sexual needs.

Prosecutors emphasized that Menachem's command role entailed a heightened duty of care and trust towards his soldiers, which he violated by misusing his rank and authority. The majority of the sum claimed covers anticipated future payments to the victim. An actuarial report attached to the suit indicates past payments amounted to about 132,000 shekels, totaling approximately 137,000 shekels with interest and linkage as of late January 2026. An additional capitalized value of 1.05 million shekels is sought for future payments, including various benefits like educational assistance.

Menachem, who served as a captain commanding an operational rescue and extraction company, was convicted in July 2024 based on his plea to an amended indictment for sexual offenses, sexual harassment through abuse of authority, and unbecoming conduct. Court documents reveal he integrated sexual advances into discussions about the soldiers' service and pitted them against each other for a position. In February 2025, he was sentenced to 22 months in prison, demoted to private, and ordered to pay 8,000 shekels to the disabled victim and 30,000 shekels to the second victim.

The sentencing judges noted that the criminal compensation did not cover the full extent of the damages, referencing limitations on compensation amounts in military courts. In May 2025, his prison sentence was reduced to 18 months on appeal. According to the lawsuit, Menachem was released in early August 2026 after serving two-thirds of his sentence. The civil suit relies on findings from the criminal proceedings and provisions of the Disabled Veterans Law.

The prosecution explained that even though the harm was directed at the victim, the state is entitled to step into her shoes to pursue reimbursement. The objective, according to the state, is to recover funds that have been and will be diverted from the public purse due to the defendant's wrongdoing. The state has reserved the right to file a future claim for compensation related to the second victim, should she also be recognized as a disabled IDF veteran.