The Sde Teiman affair has become a major political and constitutional crisis in Israel, centering on a military detention facility, alleged abuse, and the subsequent leak of evidence. The controversy has led to the resignation and arrest of the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) top lawyer, Major General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi. Here is a breakdown of the complex case:
1. What is the Sde Teiman "Core Incident"?
In July 2024, a Palestinian detainee at the Sde Teiman facility was allegedly subjected to severe abuse by IDF reservists, resulting in life-threatening injuries. Five reservists have been charged with aggravated abuse, which they deny.
2. What was the "Leak"?
The incident gained national attention in August 2024 when video footage documenting the alleged abuse was leaked to the media and broadcast. This leak, not the abuse itself, became the subject of a high-profile criminal investigation.
3. Who is Major General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi?
She was the IDF's Military Advocate-General (MAG), the top legal adviser responsible for the military justice system. She is a central figure in the leak probe, underscoring the gravity of the investigation.
4. Why did the MAG resign and what did she admit?
Maj. Gen. Tomer-Yerushalmi resigned on October 31, 2025, and admitted to approving the video's release. She stated her decision was driven by a "duty to expose the abuse" and ensure accountability, effectively taking responsibility for the leak.
5. What are the allegations against the former MAG?
She was arrested on suspicion of fraud and disclosing official information. The legal proceedings against her focus on the unauthorized release of sensitive material, which her defense argues was an act of conscience.
6. Why was the leak investigated criminally?
The leak was treated as a breach of official secrecy and a potential obstruction of justice. An initial internal IDF inquiry failed to find the source, leading critics to allege a cover-up, which prompted the Attorney General to announce a full criminal investigation.
7. What are the political implications of the affair?
The scandal has caused a political firestorm. Prime Minister Netanyahu and others condemned the leak as an "attack on the IDF," while the incident also sparked protests. The affair highlights deep divisions over military conduct and transparency.
8. What constitutional questions does the case raise?
The controversy raises serious questions about the independence of the military justice system and the rule of law. The MAG's independence is considered vital for Israel's international legal standing, and her arrest has put the military's ability to self-regulate under intense scrutiny.
9. What is the status of the former MAG's legal proceedings?
Due to concerns about her mental health under the pressure of the case, a court granted her a remote video hearing. Her defense is arguing for her release, emphasizing that she has not attempted to obstruct the ongoing investigation.
10. What is the broader significance of the Sde Teiman probe?
The case is a test for the Israeli military and judicial systems, balancing national security with transparency. The outcome will set a precedent for future leak investigations involving high-ranking officials and will influence public trust in the accountability mechanisms within the IDF.
Photo: Manus AI