Israel's Attorney General Ordered to Appear in Netanyahu Trial

Baharav-Miara had argued that her personal appearance was unnecessary, stating she had full confidence in the senior prosecution team, led by Yehudit Tirosh, to represent her office. However, the judges ruled that her direct participation is essential to facilitate a productive, two-way dialogue. They emphasized that the individual ultimately responsible for making decisions must hear the arguments firsthand and respond directly. The hearing, which will focus on options for managing and advancing the legal proceedings against Netanyahu, may be held behind closed doors if necessary.

This unusual summons follows a request by the defense teams for Netanyahu and Shaul Elovitch, and comes after recent testimony from former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit. Mandelblit's testimony raised questions about the investigation and indictment process, including whether he explicitly authorized the bribery investigation in Case 4000. According to Calcalist and The Times of Israel, the court has previously recommended that the prosecution drop the bribery charge in Case 4000, a proposal the prosecution has not addressed. The judges clarified that the current summons pertains solely to Netanyahu's case and not to the Elovitch couple.