Israeli Judge Faces Backlash Over Offensive Remarks to Ultra-Orthodox Witnesses

In a recent trial at the Hadera Magistrate's Court, Judge Yifat Ungar Biton made controversial remarks to ultra-Orthodox Jewish witnesses, which were captured in exclusive recordings obtained by Channel 14 News. The judge commented on the witnesses' speech pace, comparing it to the rapid recitation of prayers in synagogues and implying that only their community could understand such prayers. She said, "Here we speak slowly, you need to be understood." In another instance, she referred dismissively to a witness's affidavit as a "tsaytle," a Yiddish term for a note, which the witness defended as a significant document in their tradition.

The witnesses filed a complaint with the Public Complaints Commissioner for Judges, Asher Kola, alleging that the judge's comments reflected prejudice and disrespect toward the ultra-Orthodox community and their faith, undermining the judicial process and public trust. Judge Ungar Biton responded by apologizing, stating she may have chosen her words poorly but did not intend to offend and aimed to communicate using concepts familiar to the witnesses.

Commissioner Kola closed the complaint, acknowledging the judge's apology but emphasizing the importance of judges being mindful of how their words may be perceived objectively. This is not the first time Judge Ungar Biton has been recorded making contentious remarks; a 2019 recording revealed another inappropriate comment during a court proceeding.

The Judicial Authority's spokesperson confirmed the judge's apology and the closure of the investigation. The incident has sparked discussion about sensitivity and impartiality in the Israeli judiciary when dealing with minority communities.