Israel's top soldier faces 'land grab' investigation
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Government watchdog investigation into an alleged land grab by Israel's incoming military chief could threaten the appointment of the decorated general, a justice official said.
After winning an internal battle to become Israel's top soldier, Maj Gen Yoav Galant must answer the state comptroller's inquiry into how he expanded his large property in northern Israel. A hearing is scheduled for next week.
The affair has sparked new infighting among Israel's top military brass, and dominated media coverage. The front page of a newspaper featured an aerial photo of Galant's castle-like home, surrounded by trees and access roads.
Galant, who led Israel's 2008-2009 Gaza offensive as head of the military's Southern Command, is slated to take over from the current military chief, Lt Gen Gabi Ashkenazi, on 14 February. He has not commented on the issue.
Justice Ministry spokesman Moshe Cohen said the appointment could be delayed, or even shelved, depending on the watchdog's investigation.
Defence Minister Ehud Barak, who selected Galant, said he expects the appointment to go ahead as planned.
The story first emerged two years ago in a newspaper investigative report that cited alleged zoning and construction offenses at Galant's home on a communal farm in northern Israel. His neighbours claim he carved roads, built a car park and planted trees on land that did not belong to him.
After Galant's appointment in August, Israeli environmental groups petitioned against him. Michael Eitan, a minister who voted against the appointment, said the government should have investigated the matter more fully before giving him the job.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments