Controversy Surrounds Nomination of Silvan Shalom to Lead Israel Aerospace Industries

The nomination of former Likud minister Silvan Shalom to lead Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has sparked significant controversy due to multiple allegations of sexual assault against him. Meirav Cohen, the chair of the Knesset Committee on the Status of Women and Gender Equality, has publicly opposed Shalom's appointment, urging the Defense Ministry not to proceed with it. During a recent committee session, a woman identified as Michal testified that Shalom assaulted her while he was serving as the science and technology minister. She emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “You are placing Israel’s security in the hands of a rapist.”

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Shalom, who resigned from public life in 2015 amid growing allegations from 13 women, has denied these accusations. The police investigation into the claims was closed without charges, as none of the women filed formal complaints. Journalist Hadash Shteif, also testifying at the session, stated, “This man is a sex offender. Period,” highlighting the concerns surrounding Shalom's potential leadership role.

Times of Israel

The nomination has drawn criticism from various advocacy groups, including the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel. They expressed that Shalom's appointment would undermine the safety of women and send a detrimental message regarding the treatment of sexual assault victims. The Israel Women’s Network has also weighed in, noting that the lack of legal action against Shalom was not due to insufficient evidence but rather the statute of limitations and victims' reluctance to testify. They argue that the testimonies of the women who accused him should be a central consideration in evaluating his suitability for such a significant position.

Times of Israel

In addition to the testimonies against Shalom, the committee session featured accounts from survivors of sexual violence. Shaylee Atary, a survivor of a violent assault in 2011, criticized the inadequate state response to her case and highlighted systemic failures in the judicial process. Atary, who recently survived a Hamas-led massacre, is collaborating with the Association of Rape Crisis Centers to draft a bill aimed at granting victims more rights in legal proceedings, particularly concerning gag orders that often shield details of sexual assault cases.

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Cohen has called for an internal review by the police and relevant ministries, stating, “The system is bankrupt. It has failed.” She has also urged the Justice Ministry to consider the proposed legislative changes to improve the rights of sexual assault victims. The ongoing debate surrounding Shalom's nomination reflects broader concerns about the treatment of sexual assault allegations in Israel and the implications for women's safety in leadership roles.

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• “Make sure this man is not in a public position,” — Michal, Testifying Witness

Times of Israel

• “This man is a sex offender. Period,” — Hadash Shteif, Journalist

Times of Israel

• “the system is bankrupt. It has failed,” — Meirav Cohen, MK

Times of Israel