Israeli police apprehended a former high-ranking legal officer in the military after she resigned amidst a criminal investigation into a leaked video allegedly showing soldiers mistreating a Palestinian detainee. The arrest of Maj.-Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi was confirmed by Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir. Her resignation had been officially accepted by the chief of staff of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) last Friday.
The leaked security footage purportedly shows soldiers engaging in abusive behavior towards a Palestinian detainee. The detainee was surrounded by soldiers holding a dog, obscuring their actions with riot gear. The victim, who was handcuffed, blindfolded, and restrained, suffered severe injuries including a ruptured bowel, lung damage, and broken ribs according to medical reports.
Tomer-Yerushalmi’s detention was extended until Wednesday following a court hearing on Monday. She faces allegations of fraud, breach of trust, and obstruction of justice. An ongoing investigation is being conducted while she remains in custody at a women’s prison in central Israel.
A search was launched for Tomer-Yerushalmi after her family expressed concerns for her safety and her abandoned car was discovered near a beach in Tel Aviv. The former chief military prosecutor, Col. Matan Solomesh, was also arrested, and his detention was extended. Tomer-Yerushalmi stated that she resigned after approving the video’s leak in August 2024.
The abuse investigation resulted in criminal charges against five soldiers and caused public outrage. Various reports and allegations of abuse within the facility housing detainees, including severe violence and torture, have surfaced. The IDF denies all reports of abuse and is conducting investigations into multiple cases.
Tomer-Yerushalmi defended her actions as an effort to combat propaganda against the military’s legal department. She emphasized the need to uphold the rule of law despite the challenging circumstances. The resignation of Tomer-Yerushalmi was welcomed by Defence Minister Israel Katz, who criticized those spreading negative narratives about IDF troops.
The incident has sparked a debate on the treatment of detainees, with calls for further inquiries into legal authorities and the release of Gaza detainees. The situation remains contentious as investigations continue into the alleged abuse and the actions of those involved.
