High Court Signals Firm Stand Against Political Encroachment in Military Advocate General Investigation

Judge Barak-Erez orders the MAG investigation move to the State Attorney’s Office. Learn why this 2026 ruling is a blow to political efforts to sideline the Attorney General.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 24, 2026, 5:50 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Calcalist.

The Judicial Order for Independent Oversight

The Supreme Court has issued a directive requiring Justice Ministry Legal Counsel Yael Kotik to identify a specific, authorized body within the State Attorney's Office to oversee the investigation into Military Advocate General (MAG) Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi. Judge Daphne Barak-Erez’s ruling effectively removes the case from a state of procedural limbo that critics argue was being exploited for political gain. By mandating the case be handled by a professional, independent legal entity, the court aims to restore institutional order and ensure that the investigation follows established rule-of-law protocols rather than political directives.

Political Maneuvering and the Focus on the Attorney General

The broader context of this judicial intervention involves an intense political struggle between the executive branch and the Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara. Analysts suggest that the "MAG Affair" has been utilized by political figures, specifically Justice Minister Yariv Levin and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, as a tool to undermine the AG’s authority. The court's minimalist ruling avoids direct confrontation but fundamentally asserts that specialized legal matters must remain beyond the reach of political appointees who seek to frame a narrative of institutional corruption to justify radical structural changes.

Delays and Institutional Complicity Within the Police Force

According to the report, significant delays in the investigation have been attributed to the conduct of Police Commissioner Danny Levy and other high-ranking officials. The case was reportedly held up within the police hierarchy after the head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division, Boaz Balat, refused to allow the case to be used as a fishing expedition against the Attorney General. The High Court’s decision to bypass current bottlenecks reflects a deep concern regarding the politicization of the police force and its apparent willingness to stall sensitive cases to satisfy the demands of government ministers.