Leaked documents case: Israeli government allegedly abuses Eli Feldstein

Yesterday, we reported that the Shin Bet concluded its investigation of Eli Feldstein, a senior advisor to Prime Minister Netanyahu, with the case now moving to police custody. The Rishon LeZion Magistrate's Court extended Feldstein's detention by just one day, significantly less than the eight days requested by authorities.

Judge Dorit Saban Noy criticized the investigation's pace as "unsatisfactory" while acknowledging "solid evidence linking the suspect to the alleged offenses." Feldstein is suspected of involvement in leaking classified information to the Prime Minister's Office.

In a disturbing revelation, Feldstein's attorney, Ephraim Dimri, told Galei Israel radio about his client's severe detention conditions. "He's in solitary confinement, handcuffed, blindfolded around the clock. He can't tell day from night," Dimri said. "The first thing he said to me was 'death would be better than this life.' It broke my heart."

Dimri criticized the authorities' approach, stating, "This is the result of negligence - that those responsible for the failures aren't the ones sitting in jail."

While the Shin Bet has completed its part of the investigation, the case continues under police jurisdiction. Of the four suspects in custody, one has been released to house arrest under restrictions, while authorities sought extended detention for the others. The identity of the released suspect remains under a gag order.

The case, which involves allegations of leaked classified information within the Prime Minister's Office, continues to develop as it transitions to its next phase under police investigation.