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Former Attorney-General Mandelblit ends Benjamin Netanyahu trial testimony over investigations
On Sunday, Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit took the stand at the Jerusalem District Court in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial, where the defense is challenging whether investigators had proper authorization to pursue parts of the case.
Mandelblit provided approval orally during meetings rather than through formal written documents, while prosecutors maintain investigative steps were lawful and documented in Justice Ministry minutes. This procedural dispute centers on the scope of his authorization.
Attorney Amit Hadad promised questioning would proceed "professionally and without inflammatory rhetoric" to uncover hidden truths. The defense also plans to challenge investigative tactics used against state witness Nir Hefetz.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended the hearing, accompanied by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, and lawmaker Tally Gotliv—a rare appearance since he typically skips witness hearings.
The defense requested seven sessions for Mandelblit's testimony, with the final day scheduled for October 22, five days before Israel's October 27 election; judges may limit the duration.