Netanyahu Calls for Investigation of Former AG Mandelblit Amid Trial Testimony

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit and senior prosecution officials should be investigated, citing revelations from Mandelblit's testimony in the "Case 4000" trial. Appearing on Channel 14's "HaPatriotim" program, Netanyahu expressed concern over the upcoming elections, warning that the race between political blocs is extremely close and hinges on voter turnout. He urged his supporters to vote and mobilize others, emphasizing that a failure to do so could lead to the opposition forming the next government.

Netanyahu also addressed his ongoing legal battles, asserting that the truth about the conduct of the law enforcement system is beginning to emerge. He accused officials involved in the investigations against him of fabricating evidence, witness coercion, and fraud, and called for a criminal investigation into Mandelblit, former State Attorney Shai Nitzan, and others. "There was a lot, not with us, but with them. Coercion of witnesses, forgery, fraud," Netanyahu claimed.

The Prime Minister's testimony also touched upon national security, including the Iranian threat and the situation in Gaza. He reiterated his commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and outlined a plan to dismantle Hamas, suggesting either an international force or Israeli military action. Netanyahu also discussed the security situation in Judea and Samaria, highlighting extensive IDF operations and asserting that the Israeli military would not withdraw from areas where forces are operating, even if the High Court intervenes.

Regarding the October 7th attacks, Netanyahu advocated for an equal, bipartisan investigative committee, similar to the US model for the 9/11 attacks, and criticized the Supreme Court's intervention in the State Comptroller's investigation. He also addressed claims that he presented an incomplete picture to the Comptroller, dismissing them as "nonsense and a lie" and stating he provided extensive documentation. He further alleged that former military and security chiefs had suggested halting operations in Gaza before achieving victory, a claim he attributed to former IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi.

Netanyahu also criticized the judicial system, arguing that unelected officials hold too much power and that judges appoint themselves, disrupting the balance of power. He expressed hope for avoiding a clash between branches of government but criticized the Attorney General for invalidating government decisions. The interview also covered settlement expansion in Judea and Samaria and the Negev, with Netanyahu vowing to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state and to bolster Jewish settlement.