Israel's Attorney General Will Not Appear in Netanyahu Trial

Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara will not attend a discussion with judges concerning the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Prosecutor Yehudit Tirosh informed the Jerusalem District Court on Wednesday that the prosecution team is authorized to represent the Attorney General and convey the judges' remarks. Tirosh stated that Baharav-Miara's personal appearance is not in line with the prosecution's work procedures, emphasizing that a senior team, including the Deputy State Prosecutor, is present to relay all necessary information.

The request for the Attorney General's appearance was made last week by the defense attorneys for Netanyahu and Shaul Elovitch, who sought a discussion with Baharav-Miara. Judge Oded Shacham noted that the panel had already considered the possibility. Tirosh argued that the Attorney General appearing in court while her representatives are present would be an inappropriate procedure for the prosecution system.

The defense's request came during the defense's presentation of its case, following the testimony of former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit. Defense lawyers questioned Mandelblit about investigation approvals and information he received. The defense attorneys then sought to speak with the current head of the prosecution system.

Attorney Amit Haddad told the judges that the court has the authority to summon Baharav-Miara even if she does not wish to attend, citing a Supreme Court case where the State Prosecutor was summoned. Tirosh added that Baharav-Miara and State Prosecutor Amit Issman are open to direct discussions regarding a potential plea deal. She stated that both had previously responded positively to such an inquiry, but Netanyahu had not. Tirosh mentioned that their positive response to the President's inquiry was made after internal discussions, but Netanyahu chose not to respond, leaving their affirmative answer pending.