Ex-AG Mandelblit Denies Broadening Netanyahu Investigation Approval
Translated & summarized from 0404 by baba
Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit denied authorizing a wide-ranging investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Attorney Amit Haddad presented evidence suggesting police sought "any possible information" from ex-chief of staff Ari Harow in exchange for closing his case. Mandelblit stated he did not approve such a broad scope, emphasizing the need for focus in investigations.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Former AG Avichai Mandelblit denied approving a broad investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
- Attorney Amit Haddad presented evidence of a "fishing expedition" against Netanyahu.
- Ex-chief of staff Ari Harow was allegedly offered a deal by Lahav 433 head Koresh Barnor.
- Barnor reportedly asked Harow for "merchandise" in exchange for closing his case.
- Mandelblit stated investigations must be focused, not wide-ranging.
Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit stated that he did not authorize a wide-ranging investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, contrary to claims made during cross-examination. Attorney Amit Haddad presented excerpts from the interrogation of Ari Harow, Netanyahu's former chief of staff, suggesting that the police expanded a focused investigation into a "fishing expedition" for any possible information against the Prime Minister.
Haddad read aloud statements attributed to Koresh Barnor, head of the Lahav 433 anti-corruption unit, who allegedly offered Harow a deal: "I am going with you on a deal, I am giving you something heavy, I am going to close your case. I want to know what you are giving." Barnor reportedly demanded a list of information, asking, "What's the merchandise?"
When questioned by Haddad about whether he was aware of this "fishing expedition" against Netanyahu, Mandelblit responded negatively. "The answer is no. There are things that need to be focused on," he said. Mandelblit explicitly stated, "I did not authorize such a broad approval."
