Israeli Attorney General Launches Investigation into Sara Netanyahu's Alleged Harassment of Political Opponents

Israel's Attorney General has initiated a police investigation into Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The probe focuses on allegations of harassment against political adversaries and a witness in the Prime Minister's corruption trial. This decision follows revelations from the "Uvda" investigative programme, which uncovered WhatsApp messages suggesting Sara Netanyahu directed a former aide to organise protests against political opponents and intimidate Hadas Klein, a key witness.

The Justice Ministry's announcement did not specifically name Sara Netanyahu, and they have refrained from further comments. However, Benjamin Netanyahu defended his wife in a video released earlier, highlighting her charitable deeds and criticising the Uvda report as "lies." He accused his political opponents and media of targeting his wife with "nasty propaganda" and falsehoods.

Corruption Trial and Media Relations

This investigation adds to the ongoing legal challenges faced by the Netanyahus, particularly Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial. He faces charges of fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes in cases involving alleged exchanges of favours with influential media figures and wealthy associates. Netanyahu denies these accusations, claiming they are part of a "witch hunt" orchestrated by prosecutors, police, and the media.

The Uvda report revealed communications between Sara Netanyahu and Hanni Bleiweiss, a former aide who passed away last year due to cancer. The messages suggested that Sara encouraged police to act aggressively against anti-government protesters and instructed Bleiweiss to organise demonstrations against her husband's critics. Additionally, she urged Likud party activists to publicly attack Klein.

Allegations Against Sara Netanyahu

Klein is an aide to billionaire Hollywood mogul Arnon Milchan and has testified about delivering expensive gifts to Netanyahu on behalf of her employer. The report also indicated that Sara mistreated Bleiweiss, prompting her to share these messages with a reporter before her death. Sara has previously faced accusations of abusive behaviour towards staff and excessive spending of public funds for personal use.

In 2019, she was fined for misusing state funds. These allegations have contributed to her image as being disconnected from ordinary Israelis. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticised Attorney General Gali Baharav Miara following the announcement, suggesting it was another reason for her dismissal.

Political Reactions

"Someone who politically persecutes government ministers and their families cannot continue to serve as the attorney general," Ben-Gvir stated. Justice Minister Yariv Levin also criticised Baharav Miara, accusing her of focusing on "television gossip" rather than substantive issues. He declared that "selective enforcement is a crime!" in response to the investigation announcement.

The unfolding events highlight ongoing tensions between the Israeli government and its legal institutions. As investigations proceed, they continue to draw significant public attention both domestically and internationally.