Israeli authorities have detained a former top military legal officer following her resignation amid a criminal investigation into a leaked video showing soldiers mistreating a Palestinian detainee. The arrest of Maj.-Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi was confirmed by Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir. The leaked security footage allegedly shows soldiers subjecting a Palestinian detainee to abuse, including sodomy, while the victim was restrained and blindfolded. The detainee reportedly suffered serious injuries, including a ruptured bowel and broken ribs, requiring hospitalization.
Tomer-Yerushalmi’s detention was extended after a court hearing, with suspicions of fraud, breach of trust, and obstruction of justice. She is currently held in a women’s prison in central Israel. A search for her was initiated after her family expressed concerns about her safety, and she was found shortly thereafter. Former chief military prosecutor Col. Matan Solomesh was also arrested in connection with the case.
Tomer-Yerushalmi resigned after admitting to authorizing the video’s release in August 2024. Her resignation was accepted, and Defence Minister Israel Katz supported the decision, stating that anyone tarnishing the reputation of IDF troops is not fit to serve. The abuse investigation led to criminal charges against five soldiers, triggering protests and condemnation from various quarters. The leaked video originated from the Sde Teiman detention camp, where detainees were reportedly subjected to severe violence and mistreatment.
Allegations of systemic prisoner abuse in Israeli facilities have drawn international scrutiny. The military denies any wrongdoing but is investigating multiple cases. Tomer-Yerushalmi defended her actions as necessary to counter misinformation against the military’s legal department. Her resignation prompted calls for further investigations into legal authorities. The incident has raised concerns about the treatment of detainees and the need for accountability within the Israeli military.
