Police transfer probe into former military advocate general to external review over video leak case

Israeli police announced Tuesday that they have completed their investigation into former Military Advocate General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi in connection with the leak of a video from the Tzeelim base, also known as Sde Teiman. The case materials will now be transferred to an external body for review, citing the matter’s high public sensitivity.

Police said Commissioner Chief Superintendent Danny Levy decided to forward the investigation file to the legal advisor of the Ministry of Justice, Yael Kotik. Based on her legal opinion, the material is expected to be examined by an authorized external body to determine whether further investigation is required or whether indictments should be filed against suspects.

The move follows public statements by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir regarding alleged involvement by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. Police stressed that the investigation found no evidence supporting claims of involvement by Baharav-Miara or her staff.

In a statement, police said the decision was made “by virtue of the Commissioner’s public responsibility and in order to strengthen public trust,” adding that allowing an external senior professional body to review the case is consistent with Supreme Court rulings and standard practice in sensitive investigations.

Police also rejected reports suggesting the Commissioner interfered with the investigation. According to the statement, Levy met with the head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division and the investigative team, reviewed the findings, and received detailed explanations but did not influence the investigative process.

Given what police described as “special circumstances,” the commissioner instructed the police legal advisor to formally update the Justice Ministry’s legal advisor on the factual situation, particularly regarding potential conflicts of interest. This step was taken so the issue could be assessed based on the clarified findings.

Police said that in accordance with the Justice Ministry legal advisor’s forthcoming opinion, the investigation materials will be transferred to an independent external body. That body will be tasked with reviewing the findings and deciding on next steps, including whether to pursue additional investigative actions, summon more witnesses or suspects, or file indictments where relevant.