Avichai Mandelblit — Person

About

Avichai Mandelblit (born July 29, 1963) is an Israeli jurist renowned for his extensive career in military and civilian legal roles within the Israeli government. He began his professional life in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), where he served as a military officer in the legal system, rising to the position of Chief Military Advocate General from 2004 to 2011, overseeing military justice and legal affairs during significant periods of conflict and internal operations. Transitioning to civilian service, Mandelblit was appointed Cabinet Secretary in April 2013, advising the Israeli government on policy and administrative matters until February 2016. He then served as State Attorney before being appointed Attorney General of Israel in February 2016, a position he held until 2022.

As Attorney General, Mandelblit played a pivotal role in high-profile legal actions, most notably indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in November 2019 on charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery following a three-year investigation, in corruption cases to which Naftali Bennett was a key witness. This decision drew intense controversy, with Netanyahu and his supporters accusing Mandelblit of political bias and being part of a 'witch hunt,' while others praised him for upholding the rule of law. Mandelblit also indicted far-right activist Bentzi Gopstein in 2019 for incitement to racism and violence against Arabs, with support for terrorism charges specified. Throughout his tenure, he navigated complex issues including corruption probes, military operations' legalities, and tensions between judicial independence and political pressures. His career highlights his influence in Israel's legal and governmental networks, contributing to the oversight of major corruption and extremism cases.

Mandelblit, an Orthodox Jew, has been married since the early 1990s and maintains a low public profile regarding his personal life. Post-2022, he has largely stepped back from public roles but remains a figure in discussions on Israeli legal and political landscapes.

Key Relationships

Bentzi Gopstein

indicted

As Attorney General, Mandelblit authorized and oversaw the 2019 indictment of Gopstein on charges of incitement to terrorism, violence, and racism based on his speeches and Lehava's activities.

Since 2019

Roni Alsheikh

collaborated

As police commissioner, Alsheikh worked closely with Mandelblit to build cases against high-profile figures, including sharing evidence that led to Netanyahu's indictments in Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000.

Since 2016

Roni Alsheikh

influenced

Alsheikh's recommendations and evidence sharing influenced Mandelblit's prosecutorial strategy, culminating in landmark indictments against top politicians.

Since 2016

Benjamin Netanyahu

briefed

Avichai Mandelblit served as Cabinet Secretary under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from 2013 to 2016, working closely on government operations, policy implementation, and sensitive legal and administrative matters. This established a close professional and advisory relationship, providing Netanyahu with direct influence over these processes. Reports during the Netanyahu corruption investigations later revealed ongoing private communications between Mandelblit and Netanyahu's circle from this period, raising allegations of improper influence attempts to sway the probe. This professional rapport preceded Mandelblit's later role as Attorney General in prosecuting Netanyahu.

Since 2013

Benjamin Netanyahu

opposed

Netanyahu and his allies vehemently opposed Mandelblit following the 2019 indictment on corruption charges, launching public attacks accusing him of political bias and left-wing activism, which intensified political divisions and pressure on the judiciary.

Since 2019

Ayelet Shaked

nominated

As Justice Minister, Shaked nominated Mandelblit for the position of Attorney General in 2016, a decision that was controversial given his prior service under Netanyahu and the political stakes of the role amid ongoing investigations.

Since 2016

Key Facts

Career & Education

About

Key Relationships