Former Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked Testifies in Sensitive 'Neve Tzedek' Judicial Corruption Probe

Former Israeli Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked appeared at the National Fraud Investigation Unit (Lahav 433) headquarters in Lod on Tuesday to provide an open testimony in the ongoing "Neve Tzedek" investigation. This probe centers on alleged illicit quid pro quo arrangements between former Israel Bar Association chairman Effi Nevo and former Tel Aviv District Court President Judge Eitan Ornstain. The investigation focuses on suspicions that Nevo sought to influence Ornstain's appointment as president of the Tel Aviv District Court in exchange for various benefits affecting Nevo's status and the Bar Association.

Shaked, who at the time chaired the Judicial Selection Committee and played a decisive role in senior judicial appointments, was summoned after all necessary legal and command approvals were obtained due to her high-profile former position and the case's sensitivity. Her testimony aimed to clarify behind-the-scenes decision-making processes, appointment procedures, and the involvement or influence of various parties around the committee.

The police emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and closely supervised by the Economic and Taxation Prosecution. The case gained public attention about two months ago when recordings published by Haaretz revealed conversations between Nevo and Ornstain, suggesting corrupt dealings. In one recording, Ornstain urged Nevo to "take care of me," while Nevo coordinated meetings to advance Ornstain's appointment. Additional recordings exposed alleged manipulations behind Avichai Mandelblit's 2015 appointment as Attorney General, involving Nevo's influence.

Following these revelations, Nevo and Ornstain were arrested and interrogated in February on suspicions of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust but were released under restrictive conditions, including a 20,000 shekel personal bail and a 30-day prohibition on contacting involved parties. Shaked is not suspected of wrongdoing but was involved in the appointment process, prompting her summons to testify.