Netanyahu's Corrupt Comeback
Two months post Hamas's assault on Israel, the corruption trial against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reignited in the Jewish state. Speculations suggest Netanyahu may soon take the witness stand. The major Hamas attack on Israel, which occurred on October 7th, initially halted the proceedings.
At 74 years old, Netanyahu faces three charges including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The initial hearings revolved around the allegation that Netanyahu granted favors to telecommunications company, Besek, in exchange for positive coverage on the "Walla" website.
In another instance, the public prosecutor's office accuses Netanyahu of receiving luxurious gifts worth approximately 176,000 euros between 2007 and 2016. Gifts from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and others were said to have been given in exchange for financial or personal benefits. Milchan, who purportedly received substantial tax benefits in return, is part of the investigation.
Netanyahu to be Cross-Examined?
As the first Israeli sitting prime minister to stand trial for corruption, Netanyahu strongly denies all accusations. He views himself as a victim of the public prosecutor's office and the media. Critics expressing opinions against the resumption of the trial during the war, point out the reservist call-up which may result in fewer witnesses and lawyers attending the hearings.
Having won the election as the head of the right-wing religious coalition in 2021, Netanyahu's position remains precarious due to the planned judicial reform protests. After the Hamas attack, Netanyahu formed a war cabinet with his political rival Benny Gantz.
. The recent hostilities exceed 8 weeks, marking a period filled with countless casualties, primarily civilians. Since the attack, around 1,200 Israelis have died while approximately 240 are reportedly being held captive. As a result, Israel set its sights on various targets in the densely populated Gaza strip, causing widespread destruction and escalating tensions further.
Additional Insights:
- Delay of Testimony: Netanyahu's testimony was postponed due to "special circumstances". These circumstances were likely related to ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.
- Ongoing Testimony: As of February 17, 2025, Netanyahu's trial resumed, with testimony now underway. His defense attorney estimates another 24 hearings are required for primary questioning.
- Court Restrictions: The judges have asked Netanyahu's defense team to focus less on the 315 alleged examples of interferences by Netanyahu and his associates in media coverage. Thus far, they’ve only covered just over 60 examples.
- Trial Progress: Netanyahu's legal team plans to spare time on examples they deem irrelevant, but the state attorney’s office refuses to remove any. The trial continues, with Netanyahu still defending himself against allegations of corruption, fraud, and breach of trust.
The trial against Prime Minister Netanyahu resumed amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with Netanyahu potentially testifying soon. Despite the complications caused by the war, the legal proceedings in Israel remain underway.
