Israeli Minister May Golan Questioned for Sixth Time in Corruption Probe

Minister May Golan appeared for her sixth interrogation on Monday afternoon at the Lahav 433 unit offices, as part of an investigation into suspected corruption and cronyism. The minister's questioning lasted over eight hours, during which investigators confronted her with gathered evidence. Police are working to conclude the investigation, though they indicated that further questioning might be necessary. The investigative team is expected to convene by the end of the month to summarize findings before passing the case to the State Prosecutor's Office for a decision.

The investigation is focusing on suspicions of fictitious employment within Golan's office. Specifically, authorities are examining the case of an employee who received a salary from the office but allegedly served as the personal driver for a Likud political figure named Haim Menachem. A representative for the minister stated that the employee was hired as a political advisor and that Golan requested he undergo a transition period with a more experienced political figure. This intensive questioning began after Golan initially refused to provide a statement for several months. Her change of stance followed a report by Channel 13 that police were preparing to issue an arrest warrant if she did not appear voluntarily, and also came after the Likud primaries results, where she ranked 23rd and was ultimately placed 40th on the party's list.