Israeli Army's Legal Chief Detained Amid Torture Video Leak Investigation

Yifat TomerYerushalmi, the former legal chief of the Israeli Army, has been detained by police following her declaration of responsibility for leaking a disturbing video that reportedly shows Israeli reservists torturing a Palestinian detainee last summer in Sde Teiman. This incident has sparked a significant investigation led by a special team within the Israeli police focusing on allegations of serious crimes and unauthorized leaks. Alongside TomerYerushalmi, Colonel Matan Solomosh, the former chief military prosecutor, has also been arrested in connection with the investigation. Both individuals are slated to appear before the Tel Aviv Magistrates Court today for a renewal of their preventive detention. Reports indicate that TomerYerushalmi’s leak was an attempt to counteract alleged interference from ultranationalist political figures aiming to obstruct investigations into the serious accusations against military personnel involved in the Sde Teiman incident. The leaked video, which aired on Channel 12 News, shows reservist soldiers isolating a detainee and using riot shields to obscure visibility while subjecting the individual to horrific abuse. According to the Israeli NGO Physicians for Human Rights, the Palestinian prisoner was later hospitalized in critical condition, sustaining severe injuries, including serious rectal damage. In light of these grave allegations, the Israeli Minister of Defense, Israel Kazt, announced the suspension of TomerYerushalmi from her position, underscoring the seriousness of the accusations she faces. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled the leak as "the most severe propaganda attack against Israel since its creation," claiming it has greatly tarnished the image of the State and its military. Netanyahu's statement called for an independent and impartial investigation into the leaks and underscored the political ramifications surrounding the incident. In the wake of the scandal, there have been conflicting views within the Israeli government regarding the proper oversight of the investigation, particularly with regard to Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, who Netanyahu reportedly wishes to dismiss due to her unfavorable rulings against his policies. As this situation develops, it raises significant questions surrounding human rights, military conduct, and political influence on the investigative process. The coming days will be crucial in determining the accountability of those involved and the broader implications for Israel's military and governmental authority. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2