Israeli PM appears in court for 15th time in corruption trial

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken the stand for the 15th time in his ongoing corruption trial, addressing charges of fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes in three separate cases.

The trial, which began on 24 May 2020, has been delayed multiple times, including due to the war between Israel and Hamas, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Netanyahu is the first sitting Israeli leader to testify as a criminal defendant, marking a significant moment in the long-running case.

In the trial, Netanyahu faces accusations of accepting expensive gifts, including cigars and champagne, from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan in exchange for favours related to personal and business interests. He is also alleged to have facilitated favourable regulatory treatment for Bezeq, a telecommunications company, in return for positive media coverage. Additionally, he is accused of attempting to strike a deal with the owner of Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper for more favourable reporting.

The charges, which were filed in 2019, include bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Netanyahu has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, claiming the charges are part of a politically motivated witch hunt led by a biased legal system and hostile media.

If convicted, Netanyahu could face up to 10 years in prison for the bribery charges, alongside a fine, and up to three years for the fraud and breach of trust charges. The trial, now in its fifth year, is expected to drag on for several more months, with Netanyahu’s testimony and cross-examination alone anticipated to take at least eight more months.

The trial’s progress was further delayed by the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, as the country shifted focus to its war in Gaza. However, the proceedings resumed in December 2023.

Amidst these legal troubles, Netanyahu's government has faced criticism for its attempts to overhaul the judiciary, a move that sparked mass protests in Israel and raised concerns about the country’s democratic future. Netanyahu has denied any connection between the judicial overhaul and his ongoing trial.

By Aghakazim Guliyev