Supreme Court justices hint at lifting freeze on IDF review after October 7 investigation stalls.
Two more weeks needed
In response to Justice Noam Sohlberg’s question, Berman stated that about two weeks would be needed.
Attorney Elia Tsunz, representing the State Comptroller, presented a different perspective.
“The discussions between the parties have been exhausted. We have developed a framework to manage workload effectively, ensuring that no combat unit is impacted,” Tsunz said. “While we are prepared to accept significant limitations, the talks ended without an agreement. There remains a fundamental resistance within the IDF to the review.”
In our opinion, the gaps are not substantial, but they cannot be resolved in just a few days,” Tsunz added. “We are at a very advanced stage, and simply allowing more time will not solve the issue. We would welcome their input if the justices are open to hearing ex parte arguments about the remaining gaps. This is not a matter that can be settled in two or even seven days.”
According to Tsunz, the issue stems from the IDF’s approach, while other entities have cooperated appropriately.
“With the Shin Bet, we are currently conducting reviews as agreed upon with the state. There are no issues, even with new topics. The same goes for the Prime Minister‘s Office and the Defense Ministry. The gaps with the IDF are not about time.”
Justices Noam Sohlberg, Yael Wilner, and David Mintz convened for a brief consultation before scheduling another hearing for Thursday at 3 p.m. They hinted that if no agreement is reached between the IDF and the State Comptroller, the court might remove the interim order currently halting the military review.