Amir Makhoul
Makhoul faces grave charges
Arab-Israeli writer to be indicted over aiding enemy during war, aggravated espionage offences; Arab human rights group says Makhoul underwent torture, interrogated while being tied to chair in violation of High Court ruling
Arab-Israeli writer Amir Makhoul will be indicted on grave charges, including aiding the enemy during war, aggravated espionage, and contacts with a foreign agent.
Said is being charged with handing over information to the enemy and creating contact with a foreign agent.
Makhoul's remand had been extended, and prosecutors say that the indictment will be served against him by the weekend. The Prosecutor's Office will also be indicting Balad activist Dr. Omar Said, who was detained in connection with the same affair.
Spy Affair
Sharon Roffe-Ofir
Wife of Arab-Israeli espionage suspect Ameer Makhoul slams his late-night arrest, carried out in front of his daughters, tells Ynet Shin Bet wishes to 'bring Arabs back to Middle Ages'
On Thursday, police officials are expected to lift the gag order imposed on the affair.
Was Makhoul tortured?
Meanwhile, Makhoul's attorneys, who met their client, said he appeared exhausted and complained of pains. Following his complaints, doctors from human rights groups petitioned the court and asked that a physician on their behalf be allowed to see Makhoul. The Shin Bet rejected the request earlier.
Sources in the Adalah organization said that Makhoul, who had been probed for long hours without sleep, underwent torture and was interrogated while being tied to a chair. If the accusations are correct, authorities violated High Court of Justice instructions that forbid such probe tactics.
On Monday, Makhoul's lawyers submitted a request to the court, asking that it allow the publication of a declaration written by Makhoul. The court did not respond to the request, the attorneys said.
On Sunday, the court also extended Said's remand, and an indictment against him is expected to be filed Thursday at the Nazareth District Court.
