Legal advisor and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and State Attorney Amit Isman instructed the Israel Police to open an official investigation into Sara Netanyahu, wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on suspicion of witness tampering and obstruction of justice. The decision follows allegations aired in a recent episode of the investigative program "Uvda".
The investigation was prompted by the findings of the Uvda program, which aired last week, revealing a complex network of activities involving Hani BLevis, a former director of the Prime Minister’s office, who passed away two years ago. According to the program, Levis played a central role in managing interactions between Sara Netanyahu, political figures, and the judicial system. Key allegations include instructions by Sara Netanyahu to target individuals in the judiciary, including a suspected construction violation involving prosecutor Liat Ben Ari, and to seek her suspension.
Further allegations point to Sara Netanyahu's involvement in efforts to discredit Hadas Klein, a key witness in Case 1000, a corruption investigation involving the Netanyahu family. The program also revealed alleged communications between Levis and various police officials, including Lieutenant Colonel Danny Levy, regarding police responses to public protests and coronavirus enforcement measures.
Sara Netanyahu is also accused of orchestrating a campaign against the Farkash family from Caesarea, who had hosted left-wing demonstrators in their home. According to the report, Sara Netanyahu allegedly instructed that the family be publicly condemned.
Investigation Scope and Legal Oversight
The Attorney General’s office has ordered an attorney to oversee the investigation, ensuring that the Israel Police conducts the probe appropriately and in real time. Superintendent Boaz Balat, head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division, will determine which unit will lead the investigation, with the likelihood that the investigation will fall under Lahav 433, the Israel Police’s elite anti-corruption and fraud unit, or potentially the National Fraud Investigations Unit (NFIU).
At this stage, police officials will first examine the materials presented in the "Uvda" investigation, including documents and recordings. This review will focus on establishing whether there is sufficient evidence to justify a criminal inquiry. Police sources indicated that while journalistic reports provide valuable context, they cannot serve as direct evidence in a criminal investigation until thoroughly validated.
An Israel Police source stated, “With all due respect, the findings of a journalistic investigation, no matter how in-depth, cannot constitute evidence. We will examine the material and then decide on the next steps.” The next phase of the investigation will likely involve summoning witnesses from the program and gathering additional evidence, after which the police will determine whether Sara Netanyahu should be questioned.
Potential Involvement of Prime Minister Netanyahu
Initial findings suggest that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself may also come under investigation, though at this early stage, no direct involvement has been confirmed. The inquiry is still in its initial phase, and additional evidence may emerge that could expand the scope of the probe.
A Broader Investigation of the Netanyahu Family's Activities
The Uvda program’s report on Hani BLevis painted a picture of a well-organized system that involved both political and judicial figures. According to the investigation, Levis used multiple phone lines to communicate with political activists and Sara Netanyahu, suggesting a high degree of coordination in managing the Netanyahu family's affairs.
Key aspects of the investigation also involved potential interference in judicial matters, with Sara Netanyahu allegedly directing efforts to influence legal proceedings and smear key figures in ongoing investigations.
Legal and Political Implications
The investigation into Sara Netanyahu's actions comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity in Israel, as the country is still reeling from years of legal challenges and allegations surrounding the Netanyahu family. In recent years, Benjamin Netanyahu has faced multiple corruption charges, including in Case 1000, which centers on accusations of bribery and fraud involving gifts from wealthy businessmen.
As the investigation into Sara Netanyahu unfolds, it has the potential to further shake the political landscape, particularly as Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to face scrutiny over his leadership and legal battles.
Next Steps and Public Reaction
The Attorney General’s decision to investigate Sara Netanyahu follows a growing public demand for accountability, as the “Uvda” investigation raised serious questions about the conduct of the Prime Minister’s office and its interactions with the judicial and police systems. The investigation is likely to remain a focal point of public debate, with the potential for broader political and legal ramifications.
At this stage, Israel’s legal authorities are working to determine the veracity of the claims and whether they warrant a full-scale investigation into the Netanyahu family’s conduct.
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