Full Breakdown
Likud Party Accuses Legal Establishment of Political Witch Hunt
2/1/2026, 4:54:00 AM
Allegations Against the Legal System
The Likud Party has issued a strong statement accusing elements within Israel's legal establishment, including the State Attorney’s Office, the Attorney General’s Office, and the police, of conducting a politically motivated campaign aimed at undermining the current right-wing government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Likud claims that these institutions are engaged in an “illegal and targeted witch hunt” designed to intimidate government officials and create a “tightening noose” around those close to the prime minister. The party argues that this campaign is based on fabricated allegations and selective investigations, asserting that the intent is to smear the government and shorten its term through improper means.
Specific Claims and Examples
In its statement, Likud cited several incidents as evidence of bias within the legal system. These include the closure of a criminal case involving the son of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, who was accused of stealing a military vest, and the repeated postponement of a key committee meeting investigating police use of spyware. The party also criticized the halting of a state comptroller investigation into the events of October 7, alleging that these actions are part of a broader effort to shield senior officials from scrutiny.
Response from Legal Authorities
Legal officials have rejected Likud's claims of political motivation, asserting that investigations require an evidentiary basis and judicial oversight. They emphasize that probes involving associates of prime ministers have occurred under previous governments as well, and proximity to Netanyahu does not automatically justify criminal investigations. Notably, investigations into former deputy minister Abir Kara and former finance minister Avigdor Lieberman were initiated during the previous Bennett-Lapid government, countering Likud's assertion that no investigations were launched against its officials.
Criticism of the Likud Statement
Critics of Likud's position argue that the party's claims lack substantiation and that the legal system operates independently of political influence. They point out that allegations of misconduct by government officials should be investigated regardless of the political context. Legal experts have noted that claims of a “deep state” working against the government are unfounded, as investigations are conducted based on legal grounds rather than political affiliations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This witch hunt is intended to intimidate and instill fear among government ministers, Knesset members and senior officials, by creating a tightening noose around those close to the prime minister,” — Likud Party Statement
- “All of this was done with the intention of preventing the democratically elected government from fulfilling its role, to discredit it and to try to shorten its days, through improper and illegal means.” — Likud Party Statement
- “camels flying in the air.” — Judge Menachem Mizrahi, referencing the allegations against government officials.
Conclusion
The Likud Party's accusations against Israel's legal establishment highlight a significant conflict between the government and judicial authorities. As investigations continue into various officials close to Netanyahu, the party's claims of a politically motivated campaign raise questions about the balance between legal accountability and political power in Israel. The ongoing discourse reflects deep divisions within the country regarding the rule of law and the integrity of its democratic institutions.
