Close Associate of Nir Hefetz Testifies on Interrogation Tactics in Netanyahu Trial

For the first time in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trial, a close associate of Nir Hefetz testified behind closed doors on Sunday. The court permitted the disclosure following requests from legal reporters. The testimony focused on interrogation procedures related to her, which took place during the investigation.

Three years ago, during Netanyahu's trial, the prosecution described a tactical operation involving a staged meeting between Hefetz and this associate, whose identity remains confidential. This operation aimed to influence Hefetz before he became a state witness against Netanyahu. The prosecution admitted awareness of this tactic, which was intended to resolve disputes.

During a status hearing on February 20, 2018, the investigation team reviewed all actions taken that day and planned future steps, including a search of the associate's residence and a planned "chance meeting" between her and Hefetz. This maneuver drew significant criticism, though Hefetz clarified in his testimony that the operation did not prompt him to sign a plea deal; he signed about two weeks later for other reasons.

Hefetz, once a close confidant of Netanyahu and his family, was a key witness in Case 4000. He described intense pressures, both physical and otherwise, that escalated to extreme levels. He explained that his decision to become a state witness was influenced primarily by the former Communications Ministry director Shlomo (Momo) Filber signing a deal, concerns about losing control over his fate if businessman Shaul Elovitch cooperated, and frustration over Netanyahu's refusal to be questioned despite Hefetz's prolonged detention.

Some of the pressures on Hefetz were publicly revealed, while others remain under gag order, which was previously violated by former Justice Minister and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana.