ASIATODAY.ID, TEL AVIV – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu begins trial in a corruption case.
Netanyahu’s first trial was held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, marking new history in Israeli politics.
Netanyahu attended the first session in person after it had been delayed for more than a year. The presence of Netanyahu, who has repeatedly attempted to delay the trial of this case, was recorded as history because it was the first time an Israeli prime minister was tried in a criminal case.
In the Netanyahu corruption case, the Israeli PM faces three main charges, namely allegedly accepting high-value gifts from wealthy businessmen in exchange for supporting policies that benefit them.
Fraud charges related to negotiations with the media for coverage that benefited him and his family. Charges of violation of public trust, related to providing benefits to media figures and businessmen for personal gain.
Netanyahu’s first corruption trial sparked an emotional response from the Israeli public. Hundreds of Netanyahu supporters and demonstrators gathered outside the Tel Aviv court with mutual chants.
“Netanyahu, the people support you,” his supporters shouted.
“Put Netanyahu in jail,” demonstrators shouted.
The Gaza war between Israel and the Palestinian militia Hamas in October 2023 delayed the trial process in Netanyahu’s corruption case. However, after more than a year, the judge decided that the trial should continue, even though the situation in the Middle East was still unstable. Netanyahu is required to appear in court three times a week, even though he must manage increasing national security risks.
Apart from Netanyahu’s corruption case, the Israeli PM is also targeted for arrest after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against him and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Both are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the conflict in Gaza. (AT Network)
Follow Us at Google News and WA Channel