Israel: PM Netanyahu seeks a 2.5-month delay in his corruption trial testimony

Court Hearing Scheduled on Delay Request

Tthe Jerusalem District Court announced it will hold a hearing at 11 a.m. to consider Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request to postpone his testimony in his ongoing corruption trial. Presiding Judge Rivka Friedman-Feldman has directed the prosecution to file its response to the request by noon the following day.

Defense Cites Security Incidents as Cause for Delay

Netanyahu’s legal team has requested a 2.5-month delay, asserting that recent security incidents have severely impacted his ability to prepare for testimony. Scheduled to testify on December 2, Netanyahu’s testimony will mark the start of the defense’s case after the prosecution rested earlier this year. The defense argues that heightened security needs and disruptions from ongoing hostilities have prevented the prime minister from adequately preparing.

Heightened Security Measures Following Hezbollah Drone Attack

A key part of Netanyahu’s delay request centers on increased security protocols that now require him to work from a bomb-proof room in his office’s basement. This change followed a Hezbollah drone attack near his Caesarea home in October, which damaged a window but caused no injuries. Netanyahu’s legal team argues that these urgent security measures have not only disrupted his work but also postponed other commitments, including cabinet meetings and his son’s wedding.

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Possible Conflict of Interest Claims

If granted, the delay could reignite concerns over a conflict of interest. In a 2020 agreement, Netanyahu had assured he could manage his responsibilities as prime minister while facing trial. His current request, however, could prompt watchdog groups to petition the High Court of Justice, contending that Netanyahu’s wartime responsibilities and court obligations are now incompatible, potentially requiring him to step down temporarily.

Previous Court Decisions and Potential Long-Term Impact

In July, Netanyahu’s defense sought a postponement until March 2025 due to wartime duties, but the court denied that request, setting December as the trial date. Netanyahu faces multiple charges, including fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, all of which he denies as part of an alleged campaign by law enforcement. Initiated in January 2020, the trial has been criticized for its protracted timeline, with proceedings, including potential appeals, expected to extend to at least 2028-2029. Netanyahu’s upcoming testimony is anticipated to span several hours daily over multiple weeks, potentially prolonging this already lengthy trial.

Summary: The request to postpone Netanyahu’s trial testimony underscores the challenges he faces in balancing high-stakes legal and national security demands, setting the stage for continued legal and public scrutiny in the coming months.

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