Minister Meyrav Golan Questioned for 11 Hours Amid Corruption Probe

Minister for Social Equality and Women's Advancement Meyrav Golan was questioned for over 11 hours on Wednesday at Lahav 433, Israel's national fraud investigation unit. Golan, suspected of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, denied all allegations, telling investigators, "It's all nonsense, it's all lies." She stated she was not invoking her right to silence and was prepared to answer all questions, insisting "I won't leave here until this is over."

However, a senior source close to the investigation claimed investigators possess "solid evidence that implicates and complicates her situation," adding that she would be summoned for another day of questioning. The source suggested Golan's appearance for questioning, months after being summoned, was influenced by the upcoming elections and the impending end of her parliamentary immunity in about a week. "If it were up to her, she wouldn't have shown up for questioning at all," the source stated.

Investigators reportedly believe Golan may have prepared for the interrogation with her lawyers, possibly simulating questioning scenarios. The investigation, which began as a covert inquiry and became public in September of last year with the approval of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, stems from a "HaMivaker" (The Critic) investigation into alleged illegal funds received by Golan and her associates. These funds reportedly include illicit salary payments from a non-profit she founded and payments to associates for work that may not have been performed.

Discussions for Golan's appearance began last week, with Lahav 433 indicating they would not pursue her if she did not voluntarily appear before her immunity expired. The investigation file has been transferred to the State Prosecutor's Office for approval to indict. Dozens of suspects and witnesses have been questioned, and in June, a senior Lahav official stated there was sufficient evidence to indict Golan and her associates.