Ex-AG Mandelblit Testifies in Netanyahu Trial
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit testified in the Netanyahu trial, stating the Prime Minister's desire to influence Walla news coverage was key to "maintaining power." Mandelblit also confirmed he approved the amended indictment and discussed his decisions regarding investigations into media influence and state witnesses. The defense is using his testimony to argue that investigations against Netanyahu were initiated without proper approval.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Former AG Mandelblit testified Netanyahu's influence over Walla was for "maintaining power."
- Mandelblit confirmed he approved the amended indictment in the Netanyahu trial.
- The defense claims Netanyahu investigations began without Mandelblit's approval.
- Mandelblit stated he never approved investigating Israel Hayom's editor or content.
- He also did not approve investigating state witness Shlomo Filber's affidavit.
Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit testified on Monday in the Netanyahu trial, stating that the Prime Minister's ability to influence coverage by the Walla news outlet was important to him "also in terms of maintaining power." Responding to questions about "unusual compliance," Mandelblit explained that in his view, regulatory benefits provided the alleged corrupt nature of the benefits. Earlier, he stated he did not recall if he physically signed the amended indictment but confirmed he approved it.
The defense is attempting to show that the police began investigating the cases against Netanyahu without Mandelblit's approval. According to Basic Law: The Government, initiating a criminal investigation against a sitting prime minister requires the Attorney General's consent. Mandelblit, who decided to file indictments against Netanyahu, is testifying at the request of the defense in the Jerusalem District Court, with Monday marking his eighth day of testimony.
Mandelblit also stated that he never authorized an investigation into the then-editor of Israel Hayom, Amos Regev, regarding the Adelson family's involvement in content. He added that he did not approve investigations into editorial considerations at Israel Hayom or the broader relationship between politicians and the media. Furthermore, he did not authorize the investigation of state witness Shlomo Filber concerning an affidavit he submitted during the 2015 election campaign, which claimed Netanyahu and the Likud had no connection to the newspaper.
During the proceedings, Netanyahu's lawyer, Amit Haddad, and prosecutor Yehudit Tirosh engaged in confrontations. Haddad indicated he wished to question Mandelblit over two additional sessions. However, following the judges' decision not to allow questioning about investigative actions taken after Mandelblit approved the investigation's opening, Haddad announced he would only question the former AG on Monday and Tuesday. The lawyer for Arnon (Noni) Mozes also stated her intention to question Mandelblit for one day.