Israel’s Top Military Prosecutor Resigns After Admitting Leak of Detainee Assault Video
Israel’s Military Advocate General, Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, resigned today, admitting she leaked a video showing Israeli soldiers allegedly assaulting a Palestinian detainee at the Sde Teiman detention facility.
The leaked video, aired last year by Channel 12, purportedly depicted soldiers at the southern Israel facility subjecting a Palestinian detainee from Gaza to abuse. Tomer-Yerushalmi stated in her resignation letter that she released the video to counter criticism suggesting the military prioritized Palestinian detainees over Israeli troops, asserting the military has a “duty to investigate when there is reasonable suspicion of violence against a detainee.” She added, “Unfortunately, this basic understanding — that there are actions which must never be taken even against the vilest of detainees — no longer convinces everyone.”
The resignation has sparked intense backlash from right-wing Israeli politicians. Defense Minister Israel Katz swiftly condemned Tomer-Yerushalmi’s actions and stated she would not be reinstated, announcing further investigations into the leak. This incident occurs amid broader scrutiny of Israel’s judicial system and ongoing attempts at overhaul, as reported by Human Rights Watch.
Throughout the ongoing conflict, numerous human rights organizations have documented allegations of abuse against Palestinian detainees held at facilities like Sde Teiman, including reports of beatings, inadequate food, and prolonged detention without trial – concerns that have fueled international criticism and calls for independent investigations. The treatment of detainees has become a significant point of contention in the conflict, potentially impacting international legal proceedings and diplomatic relations. The International Committee of the Red Cross has repeatedly called for humane treatment of all detainees.
Investigations into the original incident depicted in the leaked video, and the decision to leak it, will continue, officials said.
