For the first time: The state sues an officer convicted of sex crimes against his subordinates for NIS 1.2 million
The state has filed a landmark civil lawsuit for approximately NIS 1.19 million against Ophir Menachem, a former IDF company commander convicted of sexual offenses against female soldiers under his command. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the Ministry of Defense, seeks to compel him to repay benefits paid to a victim recognized as an IDF disabled veteran. Most of the amount stems from expected future payments.
The state has filed a landmark civil lawsuit for approximately NIS 1.19 million against Ophir Menachem, a former IDF company commander convicted of sexual offenses against two female soldiers who served under him. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the Ministry of Defense at the Nazareth Magistrate's Court, seeks to compel Menachem to return to the public coffers the benefits paid and expected to be paid by the state to one of the victims, who was permanently recognized as an IDF disabled veteran. The prosecution defines the lawsuit as groundbreaking and the first of its kind. Most of the claimed amount, approximately NIS 1.05 million, reflects expected future payments, including pensions and benefits such as educational assistance. Menachem, who served with the rank of captain as a commander of an operational company, was convicted in July 2024 of sexual offenses and sexual harassment while exploiting his authority. In February 2025, he was sentenced to 22 months in prison, demotion to the rank of private, and compensation. His sentence was reduced on appeal to 18 months, and he was released in early August 2026. The civil lawsuit is based on the findings of the criminal proceedings, and the state reserves the right to also sue regarding the second victim in the future.