Sara Netanyahu/ Benjamin Netanyahu/ Israel corruption trial/ harassment probe/ attorney general investigation/ JERUSALEM/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Israel’s Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has ordered an investigation into Sara Netanyahu, wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over allegations of harassment against political opponents and a key witness in her husband’s corruption trial. The probe follows a report revealing messages suggesting Sara orchestrated protests and smear campaigns.
Investigation Launched Into Sara Netanyahu: Quick Looks
- Background:
- Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has opened a probe into allegations that Sara Netanyahu harassed political rivals and Hadas Klein, a witness in Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial.
- Key Allegations:
- A report by “Uvda” claims Sara instructed aides to organize protests against critics and launch social media attacks on Klein.
- Messages suggest she directed campaigns targeting lead prosecutor Liat Ben-Ari and former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit.
- Sara Netanyahu’s Response:
- Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the report as “nasty propaganda” and highlighted his wife’s charitable acts.
- Previous Accusations:
- Sara Netanyahu has faced allegations of abusive behavior, extravagant spending, and misuse of public funds in the past.
- Political Fallout:
- Justice Minister Yariv Levin and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized the attorney general, accusing her of selective enforcement and politically motivated investigations.
Israeli AG Probes Sara Netanyahu for Harassing Witnesses, Opponents
Deep Look
Attorney General Opens Probe Into Sara Netanyahu
The investigation into Sara Netanyahu, wife of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marks the latest legal and political turbulence for the Netanyahu family. The probe follows revelations in an investigative report by the Israeli program “Uvda,” which alleged Sara orchestrated harassment campaigns targeting political rivals and key figures in her husband’s corruption trial.
Allegations of Harassment
The report uncovered WhatsApp messages in which Sara Netanyahu appeared to instruct her late aide, Hanni Bleiweiss, to organize protests outside the homes of critics and to intimidate Hadas Klein, a key witness in the corruption trial. Klein, an aide to billionaire Arnon Milchan, testified about delivering expensive gifts—including champagne and cigars—worth tens of thousands of dollars to the Netanyahu family.
PM Netanyahu Denies Allegations
Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected the claims, describing them as a coordinated attack on his wife. “My opponents on the left and in the media mercilessly attack Sara,” he said, calling the allegations “false propaganda.”
Sara has previously faced legal troubles, including a 2019 fine for misusing state funds, accusations of abusive behavior toward staff, and claims of lavish spending at taxpayer expense.
Political Ramifications
The probe has intensified tensions within Israel’s political landscape. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for Attorney General Baharav-Miara to be fired, accusing her of political bias. Justice Minister Yariv Levin echoed the sentiment, accusing the attorney general of pursuing “television gossip” instead of substantive issues.
Critics argue that targeting Sara Netanyahu diverts attention from more pressing matters, including the corruption charges against Benjamin Netanyahu. The prime minister has denied all allegations, describing the trial as a politically motivated “witch hunt.”
What Comes Next
The investigation’s findings could have significant political implications. If substantiated, the allegations could damage Sara Netanyahu’s already controversial public image and further strain the embattled prime minister’s hold on power.
