Convicted Rapist Remains Free Amid Israeli Supreme Court Judge Shortage Delaying Appeal

Dr. Katya Averbuch, who revealed last month that she was raped during her medical studies, recently received distressing news: the appeal hearing for Mishal Zohar, convicted of aggravated rape, has been postponed for another year. This delay is attributed to a severe shortage of judges and heavy caseloads at the Israeli Supreme Court. Zohar was unanimously convicted by three judges and sentenced to three and a half years in prison, a lighter sentence than the prosecution requested. Both Zohar and the prosecution have appealed the verdict and sentence, but the hearing has been repeatedly delayed, leaving Averbuch trapped in a prolonged legal process.

Averbuch expressed deep frustration, noting that despite Zohar’s conviction, he remains free and continues his personal and professional life openly. She described the delay as a breaking point, emphasizing that six years after the assault, the legal ordeal is still unresolved. Averbuch, a mother and currently pregnant, criticized the justice system’s insensitivity toward victims who continue to function publicly while suffering privately. She recalled a judge’s comment appreciating victims who appear composed, which she now understands as a misunderstanding of the trauma’s depth.

The judicial authority confirmed the delays stem from a lack of Supreme Court judges and said a request to advance the hearing date has been submitted and will be decided soon. Orit Soliziano, CEO of the Association of Centers for Victims of Sexual Assault, condemned the situation, stating it is unacceptable for a convicted sex offender to remain free and questioned how the state expects to combat rape without enforcing sentences.

Zohar’s lawyers stated he has appealed both the conviction and sentence and has joined the request to expedite the hearing, but court scheduling is at the discretion of the judiciary. The case highlights broader systemic issues in Israel’s legal system, where judicial shortages are causing significant delays in critical cases involving sexual violence.