Jerusalem, April 29: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resumed his testimony in a criminal trial on Tuesday at a court in Tel Aviv. This testimony comes after a two-month delay due to the war with Iran.
Netanyahu faces allegations in three separate corruption cases. He was originally scheduled to testify on Monday, but his lawyer requested a postponement, citing “security-related commitments,” leading to a delay in proceedings.
During Tuesday’s hearing, state attorney Yehudit Tirosh continued questioning in Case 4000. The case alleges that Netanyahu made regulatory changes to benefit Shlomo Filber, the owner of Bezeq, Israel’s largest telecom company. In return, he allegedly received favorable coverage on a news website.
Netanyahu has been accused of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, but he denies all charges.
According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, Netanyahu’s previous appearance on February 24 marked his 80th testimony in this trial.
An emergency was declared nationwide following the start of the war against Iran by Israel and the United States at the end of February. During this period, many institutions, businesses, and schools were closed, and courts operated in “emergency mode,” conducting only essential hearings via video.
Conditions returned to normal two weeks ago, but Netanyahu’s lawyers have repeatedly sought to postpone testimony, claiming they are handling critical security matters.
In November, Netanyahu requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog. Media reports indicate that this included a 111-page application from his lawyer, Hadad, along with a letter from Netanyahu.
According to The Times of Israel, Hadad wrote in the application that if a pardon were granted, the Prime Minister could devote his full time and energy to advancing the country and addressing current challenges. This would also help reduce societal divisions and strengthen the nation.
The President’s office stated that the pardon department of the Justice Ministry would gather opinions from all relevant officials before sending recommendations to the President’s legal advisor. The office noted that this is an extraordinary request with potentially significant implications. After receiving all opinions, the President will make a considered decision.
–
Leave a Comment