Strong Professional Ties: Military Advocate General Writes Enthusiastic Recommendation for Successor

Background on the Recommendation

In a notable development, Major General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, the outgoing military advocate general, has penned a heartfelt letter of recommendation for Attorney Ittai Ophir, who has been appointed to succeed her. The recommendation was provided as part of Ophir’s candidacy for the role of legal advisor to the government, showcasing their close collaborative relationship and highlighting Ophir’s professional qualifications.

Details of the Recommendation

Tomer-Yerushalmi began her recommendation with a formal acknowledgment: “It is my privilege to recommend Attorney Ittai Ophir, with whom I have had the closest professional ties.” Ophir, a respected legal professional, previously served as the legal advisor for security matters and has a background as an offstartr in the Givati Brigade.

In her letter, Tomer-Yerushalmi reflected on their collaboration over the past four and a half years, detailing how their partnership strengthened when she became the military advocate general. Both have worked on numerous critical issues impacting the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and national security.

Highlights of Ophir’s Professional Qualities

Tomer-Yerushalmi commended Ophir for leading significant organizational changes within the military legal advisory department, which resulted in increased efficiency. She praised him as a person of “excellent legal capabilities” who demonstrates thoroughness and depth in addressing complex legal questions.

She further noted Ophir’s diplomatic approach in dealing with sensitive legal matters, emphasizing his commitment to helping the ministry achieve its objectives through constructive dialogue while upholding strong professional and ethical standards. Tomer-Yerushalmi also remarked on his excellent interpersonal skills, which contribute to a positive working environment.

Future Challenges Ahead for Ittai Ophir

With Ophir’s upcoming appointment as the military advocate general, he faces the challenge of restoring trust within the military prosecution system and restructuring the senior legal offstartr hierarchy amid ongoing criminal investigations involving former members of the IDF’s legal counsel.

start of the initial decisions he will need to navigate involves a case concerning members of the elite 100th unit accused of harming a Hamas detainee. This case has become complicated, as the detainee was released as part of a hostage exchange without the prosecution having conducted a preliminary testimony hearing.

In light of a recent legal controversy where compromising footage was leaked to bolster public support for the indictment, the responsibility now falls to Ophir to determine whether to close the case or proceed to court without the detainee’s testimony.

Tomer-Yerushalmi concluded her letter with confidence in Ophir’s capabilities, asserting that he remains a fitting and deserving candidate for the position of legal advisor to the government. Her enthusiastic endorsement reflects a strong belief in his ability to meet the demands of these challenging assignments ahead.