High-profile case8/16/2026

Activist Yigal Rambam’s Case Reassigned to a New Judge After Six Years Without a Decision

The criminal proceedings against protest organizer Yigal Rambam, which have lasted nearly six years, may begin anew. Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court Judge Dov Pollock retired without issuing a decision, and the case was reassigned to Judge Eitan Arnon.

Key facts

•Court: Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court
•Previous judge: Dov Pollock
•New judge: Eitan Arnon
•Defendant: Yigal Rambam
•Duration of proceedings: Nearly six years
•Publication date: August 16, 2026

What Happened

The state conducted criminal proceedings against Yigal Rambam, who organized demonstrations against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The source describes the case as precedent-setting but does not specify the charges filed or the proceeding number.

Why the Case Was Reassigned to Another Judge

Judge Dov Pollock retired without deciding six cases that were pending before him, including Rambam’s case. The proceedings were reassigned to another judge at the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court — Eitan Arnon.

Continuing the Proceedings or Holding a New Trial

Rambam is demanding that the proceedings be conducted from the beginning. He argues that the new judge must personally hear all the witnesses so that he can directly assess their testimony and credibility.

What the New Judge May Decide

Judge Arnon is not automatically required to restart the entire proceedings. He may rehear only some of the witnesses or decide the case based on the transcripts already prepared and the written materials. The source does not state which option was chosen or how the case will end.

What this means for you

Replacing a judge after lengthy proceedings does not always require all hearings to be held again automatically. The new judge may rehear all or some of the witnesses, or rely on the existing transcripts and the parties’ written arguments — depending on the procedural decision he makes.

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