State Comptroller Micha Lindenstrauss has published a report that casts doubt over the appointment of Maj.-Gen. Yoav Galant as the next IDF Chief of Staff.
Lindenstrauss said Thursday afternoon that Galant lied in an affidavit in which he claimed that he had approached authorities for a building permit before making an addition to his house. According to documents held by the comptroller, Galant had approached the authorities only after he carried out the expansion.
In addition, Lindenstrauss said the incoming IDF chief of staff "invaded property that was not his," referring to land located near his home in Moshav Amikam. Galant has been under investigation over allegations he illegally seized 35 dunams (under 9 acres) of land and lied on the affidavit filed with the Land Committee.
According to the report, Galant was notified the land was not available, but continued to maintain a presence there for the next four years despite being told to evacuate. Galant told the comptroller that he had placed the issue in the hands of his attorney after receiving notice of the land's status.
Galant, who was questioned Sunday by Lindenstrauss for nearly four hours, was to assume his duties on February 14.
Due to the results of the investigation, there is now a question over whether current IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi will step down as scheduled, or be asked to remain in his position temporarily.