Israel Rocked by Scandal as Top Military Lawyer Resigns, Goes Missing, Is Found and Thrown Into Jail

JERUSALEM — Israel has been rocked by a scandal after Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, the army’s top legal officer, abruptly resigned last week, went missing for several hours, and was later found at a Tel Aviv beach. She is now in custody as authorities investigate her role in the release of a surveillance video linked to alleged misconduct at a military detention facility.

The video, which surfaced amid a politically sensitive investigation, shows incidents at Sde Teiman military prison in 2024. Tomer-Yerushalmi authorized the leak, drawing widespread attention and scrutiny from both the military and the public. Her sudden disappearance sparked a frantic search by security forces, raising concerns for her safety before she was located unharmed.

Authorities have extended her detention as they review potential charges, including breach of trust and obstruction of justice. Former chief military prosecutor Col. Matan Solomesh was also detained in connection with the case. Israeli officials stress that the investigation is focused on ensuring transparency and accountability within the military legal system.

The scandal highlights ongoing challenges in balancing legal oversight, operational security, and individual accountability in Israel’s military. Analysts note that the case underscores the weighty responsibilities of senior legal officers and the delicate nature of handling sensitive military evidence.

Observers say the drama has also reminded the public of Israel’s history of political and societal divisions, coming at a time of national reflection during the 30th anniversary of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s assassination. The episode has drawn intense media coverage, signaling the high stakes of legal and ethical governance in Israel’s security institutions.