A Greek Orthodox priest who has been honored by Israel for selling navy conscription amongst Christian Arabs is the topic of a prison investigation, police stated Monday.
The probe into Father Gabriel Naddaf entails suspected crimes he dedicated a few years in the past, police stated, with out detailing the alleged offenses.
The greater than year-long investigation has been wrapped up by detectives and the findings turned over to the State Attorney’s Office, which is able to resolve whether or not to pursue fees.
The revelation of the probe into Naddaf got here after the Haifa Magistrate’s Court partially lifted a gag order on the case.
Police stated additional particulars of the investigation stay under gag order till July 7.
Naddaf has been praised by many in Israel for encouraging Christian Arabs to affix the Israel Defense Forces, although he has additionally been criticized by Arab lawmakers for his work and threatened. Arabs in Israel aren't required by regulation to carry out navy service.
Father Gabriel Naddaf lights a torch throughout Israel’s official Independence Day ceremony at Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, May 11, 2016 (Hadas Parush/Flash90)
In 2016 Naddaf lit a ceremonial torch throughout Israel’s official Independence Day celebrations in recognition of his advocacy. His participation within the ceremony got here simply days after Israeli tv revealed recordings and transcripts of conversations through which Naddaf appeared to supply younger Israeli and Palestinian males assist in alternate for s3xual favors.
Naddaf denied the allegations and stated they had been meant to discredit him and his household.