JAG recommends probing Ashkenazi

Brigadier-General Danny Efroni informs Attorney General there is legal basis for criminal investigation against former IDF chief, his aide over Harpaz affair

Aviel Magnezi|Published: 08.26.12 , 22:48

IDF Military Advocate General Brigadier-General Danny Efroni has recommended that a criminal investigation be launched against former IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi and his former aide, Colonel Erez Weiner, for their involvement in the Harpaz affair, Channel 10 reported on Sunday.

The announcement comes several days after IDF Chief Benny Gantz announced Weiner will not be promoted to Chief Education Officer.

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The IDF Spokesman's Unit said in response, "The Military Prosecution and Justice Ministry are considering further action in the Harpaz affair. We shall not comment on internal professional discussions which have yet to be finalized."

Ashkenazi's spokesman said he was not aware of the recommendation and described the report as "puzzling."

Meanwhile, the State Prosecutor's Office continues to review materials collected by outgoing State Comptroller Micha Lindenstrauss in relation to the affair.

Last week, the IDF said in response to Ganz's announcement that "The decision was made by the chief of staff after understanding the IDF's great need for a new chief education officer," the IDF's Spokesperson's Unit said, adding that "The process of choosing the next education officer will proceed as usual."

Yoav Zitun contributed to this report