Police: Evidentiary basis found against MK Eli Cohen in diplomatic passport affair

The Israel Police confirmed on Wednesday morning that it has concluded its investigation into MK Eli Cohen and several public officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The probe centers on suspicions of breach of trust regarding the issuance of diplomatic passports to various individuals based on what investigators describe as "irrelevant considerations."

Investigative Findings

The investigation was launched in January 2024 following authorization from the Attorney General. During the process, investigators from the Lahav 433 fraud unit questioned dozens of involved parties and seized numerous documents. The case was closely monitored by the Taxation and Economics Department of the State Attorney's Office.

Following the completion of all investigative actions, the head of Lahav 433, Major General Manny Binyamin, approved the case summary. It was subsequently reviewed and authorized by the Head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division, Major General Boaz Balt, who directed that the materials be transferred to the prosecution.

Legal Context and Outlook

The establishment of an "evidentiary basis" indicates that police believe there is sufficient evidence to justify a trial, though the final decision rests solely with the State Attorney's Office. This development follows similar recent investigations into public officials, including a probe into Minister May Golan regarding employment irregularities, signaling a period of heightened scrutiny over administrative integrity within government ministries. The State Attorney's Office will now conduct its own review of the materials before deciding whether to proceed with a formal indictment against the former Foreign Minister.