Ex-AG Mandelblit Continues Testimony in Netanyahu Trial

Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit appeared for his seventh day of testimony in the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During cross-examination by Netanyahu's lawyer, Amit Haddad, the focus was on the approval processes for investigative actions in the "Files of the Thousand" cases, the involvement of the police and prosecution, and decisions made during Mandelblit's tenure. Mandelblit has previously testified that he was unaware of some actions taken and that certain approvals were granted retroactively, raising questions about the investigation's management.

Mandelblit requested a break shortly after the proceedings began, leading to a temporary halt in the hearing. The defense is attempting to highlight potential procedural flaws by confronting Mandelblit with documents and correspondence from the investigation period, questioning which actions he approved, when approvals were given, and whether police and prosecution followed required guidelines when investigating a sitting prime minister.

Key issues discussed include Mandelblit's knowledge and approval of various investigative actions, with the defense aiming to expose possible shortcomings. The defense also sought to clarify Mandelblit's stance on Case 3000, the submarine affair, where he stated he did not identify suspicion towards Netanyahu and was unaware the police were directing the investigation at the prime minister.

Mandelblit struggled at times to recall details of meetings and events, admitting to not remembering certain circumstances. Disagreements arose between the defense and prosecution regarding the presentation of documents and the interpretation of his answers. Questions also covered internal correspondence among prosecution officials and the extent to which the Attorney General was updated on investigative steps.

In previous testimony, Mandelblit addressed the wiretapping of Natan Eshel, a close associate of the Prime Minister, stating it angered him and he ordered it stopped due to concerns about political implications. He also discussed approvals for Case 4000, admitting he doesn't recall explicitly approving an investigation into Netanyahu for bribery but did approve an investigation into the Prime Minister regarding integrity offenses.

The defense has requested an additional five days for Mandelblit's testimony, citing the volume of materials they wish to present, including records of meetings, approvals, and correspondence related to the "Files of the Thousand" investigations. The seventh day of testimony occurs amidst ongoing disputes over the significance of approvals granted during the investigations and the scope of judicial review for the former Attorney General's decisions.