New IDF Chief Lawyer Itai Ophir Sworn In Amid Legal Turmoil

In a tightly guarded ceremony without media or public fanfare, Itai Ophir was sworn in Thursday as the Israel Defense Forces’ new chief legal officer. The event, uncharacteristically closed to the press, marked the formal beginning of Ophir’s term as a major general and Israel’s top military legal authority a post he enters during one of the most complex legal periods in IDF history.

Typically, such appointments come with ceremony and national attention. But Ophir’s arrival follows the resignation of his predecessor, Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer Yerushalmi, who stepped down under a cloud of controversy surrounding an ongoing criminal probe. The investigation involves the alleged illegal leaking of sensitive video footage tied to the reported abuse of a Palestinian detainee by IDF soldiers at the Sdei Teiman facility.

With other senior legal officials under investigation and absent from the event the IDF opted for discretion, avoiding further media scrutiny that could complicate ongoing legal proceedings.

Ophir, a former combat soldier in the Givati Brigade and legal advisor to the Defense Ministry, was chosen by Defense Minister Israel Katz as an “outsider” with no ties to the current IDF legal establishment. His appointment was seen as a move to reset the legal division’s image and direction. However, the decision sparked internal tensions, with Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly frustrated by Katz’s failure to consult him. Netanyahu’s son Yair also took to social media to criticize Ophir’s ideological credentials.

Critics have pointed out that Ophir lacks experience in military criminal law, a gap that could prove significant as he assumes responsibility for ongoing internal investigations and the IDF’s defense against potential international war crimes claims. Still, his extensive background in defense policy and legal affairs particularly in balancing sensitive political issues such as Haredi draft exemptions, West Bank jurisdiction, and coalition negotiations offers strengths in navigating the political-military legal landscape.

His appointment was welcomed by several political figures across the spectrum, including opposition leader Benny Gantz, signaling cautious optimism that Ophir can help restore stability and integrity to a legal division under intense scrutiny.

With Israel facing external threats and internal legal challenges, Ophir’s role will be critical not only in maintaining legal discipline within the ranks but also in defending Israel on the world stage.

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