State Comptroller Appointment Sparks Outrage Amid Political Maneuvering

Bereaved families denounce the appointment of Netanyahu's lawyer as state comptroller, while Likud eyes early elections.

State Comptroller Appointment Sparks Outrage Amid Political Maneuvering — Attorney Michael Rabillo, Prime Minister Netanyahu's personal lawyer, was appointed State Comptroller, a move bereaved families and survivors of the October 7 massacre call 'a black day for the institution of the State Comptroller,' according to Rafi Ben Shitrit, father of fallen soldier Elroi Ben Shitrit.[^1] The appointment deepens the dilemma between independence of oversight and political control, as critics argue it weakens the oversight body's independence.[^2] Meanwhile, Likud estimates the Knesset could be dissolved within two weeks, signaling a push for early elections.[^3] Internal polls give a joint list of centrist figures like Hendl and Tropper six seats, suggesting potential shifts in the political map.[^4] Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir wrote a harsh letter to the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, the Prime Minister, and the Defense Minister, though the content remains undisclosed.[^5] The political turbulence unfolds alongside other controversies: Minister Dudi Amsalem told Kan News Reshet Bet that 'not all Ashkenazim are racists, but almost all racists are Ashkenazim,' stoking ethnic tensions.[^6] Deputy commander Daniel Lerach launched a project to recruit religious police officers for the Temple Mount, writing: 'Anyone who wants to take part in realizing sovereignty is welcome to contact me.'[^7] Sara Netanyahu participated in an interview with a candidate for military secretary in the prime minister's absence, raising questions about her role in appointments.[^8] Smotrich task force, OECD warning, and rate moves: Israel's economy in flux — Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich established a dedicated task force this evening to assist Israeli high-tech companies, as layoffs mount and the OECD publishes a sobering report on the post-war economy.[^1] The OECD forecasts GDP growth of 3.3% in 2026 but warns the budget deficit could rise to 5.3% of GDP.[^2] Meanwhile, the Bank of Israel set the dollar exchange rate at 2.872 shekels after a 1.664% increase, and new restrictions on mortgage-backed loans are set to take effect at the end of June.[^3][^4] One Zero Ba