The IDF is considering filing a lawsuit against journalist Yoav Yitzhak. Sources inform ''Globes'' that the IDF legal counsel is examining whether reports on Yitzhak's website News1 about the "Galant document" and against IDF Spokesman Brig.-Gen. Avi Benayahu constitute libel.
The sources added that, on Thursday, the IDF sent a warning letter to Yitzhak's attorney. The letter stated that News1 alleged that Benayahu was the source of the leak of the disputed Galant document to Channel 2 News.
The document in question outlines a plan purportedly by PR consultant Eyal Arad to promote the candidacy of GOC Southern Command Maj.-Gen. Yoav Galant for the appointment as the next IDF chief of staff by smearing his rivals.
Over the weekend, despite the IDF's warning, News1 maintained its position, and the IDF is now considering suing Yitzhak.
A lawsuit by the IDF against a journalist is an extraordinary event, and the IDF requires permission of the Attorney General to file a lawsuit.
It was reported today that Benayahu has given evidence to the police several times in the Galant document affair, along with other senior IDF officers. On his site, Yitzhak reports that Benyahu is "the main suspect" in the leak of the document, which he calls a "forgery".
Yitzhak said in response, "When a lawsuit is filed, we'll respond."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 15, 2010
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