Avichai Mandelblit testifies in Netanyahu corruption trial

Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit testified as a defense witness in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial at the Jerusalem District Court. The defense is challenging the legality of the investigation, arguing that certain investigative steps were taken without proper authorization or exceeded the scope of Mandelblit’s original approval.

Mandelblit testified that while he provided oral approval to investigators during a meeting, he did not document these permissions in a formal written authorization. He also noted that he believed the police acted behind his back at one stage, specifically criticizing the illegal wiretapping of Natan Eshel, Netanyahu’s former Chief of Staff, an action he stated he stopped immediately upon discovery.

The proceedings were marked by tension, as Mandelblit was confronted by Likud Party lawmakers and Netanyahu supporters outside the courtroom. Mandelblit also reported being harassed by a journalist during his arrival.