In nearly every discussion these days about a possible plea bargain with the defendant Benjamin Netanyahu, supporters of a compromise repeat the same main argument: The deal with the former prime minister is necessary in order to undermine his attack on the justice system. This argument was made most prominently by former Supreme Court President Aharon Barak, who explained that he supported the deal because it would “take the sting out of the demolition of the court system.”
Archiv: case 2000
Most Israelis oppose plea deal in Netanyahu trial, polls find
Talks on a possible plea deal for Netanyahu in his criminal trial have progressed in recent weeks, with a potential solution found to the major sticking point left between his team and state prosecutors, Hebrew-language media reports said over the weekend. Netanyahu has been resisting a deal primarily due to Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit’s demand that his actions be designated as carrying “moral turpitude” — legally barring him from public service for seven years.
Netanyahu in talks to reach plea bargain in corruption trial
Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit is set to retire at the end of January. With with no permanent successor yet determined, it’s unclear if a new attorney general would offer the same deal if Netanyahu does not accept it within the next two weeks.
Mandelblit could see a plea bargain as favorable to end Netanyahu’s attacks on the justice system.
Netanyahu Trial: Master-manipulator Mercenary Takes the Stand, and He’s Out for Blood
The corruption trial of Benjamin Netanyahu took a dramatic turn Monday with the arrival of Nir Hefetz – former close aide and confidant, spin doctor, and, now, key state witness against his former boss
Beyond a Control Freak‘: Ex-aide Testifies Netanyahu Shredded Docs From Media Tycoon
key prosecution witness in former Benjamin Netanyahu’s trial began testifying on Monday, one week later than planned, telling the court that the former prime minister was heavily fixated on media coverage of himself.
Nir Hefetz, a former media adviser to Netanyahu and his family, will testify in all three of the corruption cases against the former prime minister. His testimony is therefore expected to continue for quite some time.
Ex-Mossad Chief Cohen Calls Cash Gift From Australian Billionaire ‚Honest Mistake‘
Cohen was asked about his relationship with Packer following a Haaretz investigation, which revealed he had received a $20,000 gift for his daughter’s wedding, though the figure cited in ‚Uvda‘ was lower.
The recently retired Mossad chief, who is a close confidant of outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, also asserted that „everything was done in consultation and with the approval of the attorney general“ and that Packer wanted to give „much more.“
Bibi’s back: 11 days of fighting have bolstered Netanyahu’s survival prospects
Early last week, the PM appeared to be on the way out, with his rivals about to announce a coalition. Now they have only a few days left, and much reduced chances
How a Drunk, Unstable Billionaire Became Netanyahu and Mossad Chief’s Confidant
(29.04.2021)
James Packer wasn’t just another billionaire who developed relationships with Israel’s elite. The Australian media and casino tycoon with the troubled psyche mingled with those in the most secret circles in the country. Benjamin Netanyahu exploited him to the hilt – and he wasn’t the only one who did so.
5 U.S. Billionaires Who Are Potential Witnesses at Netanyahu’s Corruption Trial
(04.12.2019)
Several prominent U.S. billionaires are on the list of over 300 people who could potentially be called as witnesses at Prime Minister Benjamin’s Netanyahu’s upcoming corruption trial.
5 U.S. Billionaires Who Are Potential Witnesses at Netanyahu’s Corruption Trial
(04.12.2019)
Several prominent U.S. billionaires are on the list of over 300 people who could potentially be called as witnesses at Prime Minister Benjamin’s Netanyahu’s upcoming corruption trial.
Mendelblit, Don’t Delay
(14.02.2018)
The police announcement Tuesday – that the investigations into two cases involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been completed – came 13 months after Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit decided that a “preliminary examination” of the allegations, which itself took six months, should become full-fledged criminal investigations.
Netanyahu Making Progress in Bid to Cancel His Corruption Trial
A year ago, Netanyahu waived his parliamentary immunity after he realized that in the Knesset elected in September 2019, he had no chance of receiving immunity. But the prime minister’s lawyers recently claimed in court that he never waived his right to parliamentary immunity, saying that the Knesset’s immunity proceedings were flawed.
Israeli Media Outlets to Be Indicted on Charges Related to Netanyahu Corruption Cases
In its announcement Wednesday, the prosecutor’s office stated its intention to indict corporate entities Yedioth Aharonoth and Walla as well as Eurocom group companies through which Elovich controlled Bezeq, subject to a prior hearing. The Elovich group companies are suspected of bribery and money laundering, while Yedioth Aharonoth is accused of offering a bribe.
Gantz’s Party Agrees to Delay Budget Deadline to Give More Time for Deal With Netanyahu
Defense Minister Benny Gantz’s Kahol Lavan party said Sunday that it has agreed to postpone the Tuesday deadline to pass Israel’s 2020 state budget by one week, in a move that could give it more time to negotiate a deal with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud to avoid what would be a fourth election cycle in two years.
Gantz Agrees to Curb Justice Minister’s Powers in Deal With Netanyahu to Stave Off Election
Alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz has agreed to curb Justice Minister Avi Nissenkorn’s powers, sources said, in bid to stave off election.
In return, Gantz hopes to cement the rotation agreement for the premiership with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is upheld.
Attorney-General to High Court: Don’t overturn unity gov’t
It was unclear whether the High Court could ever strike down a quasi-constitutional basic law, he said. In any event, if it were possible, it would need to be a far more extreme law, implying something criminal or actively undermining democracy, he added.
Furthermore, Mandelblit rejected the notion that the coalition was abusing or ignoring the will of the voter by forming coalitions they had vowed not to form.
Netanyahu Preparing Another Request for Lawmakers to Grant Him Immunity
(30.11.2020)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is preparing to ask the Knesset again for immunity from prosecution in his corruption cases, based on his lawyers’ argument that the criminal investigation against him was flawed and should be reconsidered.
In the past month, the prime minister has told associates that he is weighing the benefits of such a move against the possible damage it could do to his image in public opinion.
Court Hears Netanyahu’s Request to Dismiss His Corruption Cases
The three-judge panel headed by Judge Rivka Friedman-Feldman is expected to focus in Sunday’s hearing on Netanyahu’s claim that he was protected by parliamentary immunity at the time of the filing of the indictments against him. The panel is expected to rule on the issue in the next few weeks because there is no dispute over the facts on this issue.
Israeli Panel to Look Into Submarine Scandal, Riling Netanyahu
Mr. Netanyahu was not named as a suspect in an earlier police investigation of the purchase of submarines and missile boats from Germany that caught up several of his close associates. The planned commission of inquiry lacks legal authority. It may summon any witness to testify but cannot compel anybody to appear before it.
Gantz Announces Commission of Inquiry Into Submarine Affair That Has Plagued Netanyahu
The submarine affair has become a central element in the protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where demonstrators have carried inflatable submarines inscribed with slogans like “S.S. Investigation.” Protesters are calling for a commission of inquiry into the affair, as well as calling on Netanyahu to step down in light of his corruption charges.
Netanyahu’s Party Can’t Fathom Politicians Aren’t Above the Law
: Representatives of the ruling party (in the spirit of the commander, the commander’s wife and their son) long ago crossed the red line that separates the parliamentary freedom to criticize and exercise oversight of the branches of government, and sowing fear, stoking unbridled incitement and making explicit threats against those who displease them.
Netanyahu’s Coalition Whip Investigated for Extortion of Attorney General
Zohar allgedly threatened Mendelblit in October, saying that if the attorney general did not resign from his position and drop the three pending corruption indictments against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, incriminating recordings of Mendelblit would be leaked to the public.
The police interrogation of Zohar was authorized by the state prosecutor’s office.
Groundbreaking number of demonstrators against PM Netanyahu in Jerusalem tonight, across the street from his house. It is an anti corruption demonstration as he is defendant in bribery, breach of trust trial.
What Defendant Netanyahu Really Wants
So we must take seriously the report in Israel Hayom, the Netanyahu family’s private journal, saying that the prime minister is willing to give up the one-year budget – and consequently an election – in exchange for appointing the police commissioner and attorney general of his choice.
The Netanyahu Crime Syndicate’s Open Season on the Legal System
To understand what the crime syndicate that has taken over this country is after, one must first understand the goals of the man who leads it. The criminal defendant bunkered down in Balfour Street has three goals: to remain prime minister, to cancel his trial and to prevent the truth from coming out about the so-called steel shares and submarines affairs (which could result in charges that are much more serious than those in his current trial).
Netanyahu demanding changes to coalition deal to prevent elections: report
The Israeli premier reportedly wants immediate elections in case the High Court of Justice disqualifies him from serving as alternate prime minister, after his rotation with Gantz commences in November 2021, due to the indictments filed against him.
His second demand is to dissolve a public committee slated to appoint the state prosecutor and police commissioner and transfer the procedure to the government instead.
The report suggested that Gantz’s Blue and White party will find it „difficult“ to approve Netanyahu’s first request.
Kahol Lavan Says Won’t Back Bill Preventing Netanyahu From Forming Future Government
The bill, brought forward by Kahol Lavan’s former political allies Yesh Atid, is aimed at preventing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from running for office in the next election. Netanyahu currently stands trial for suspected bribery, fraud and breach of trust.
Attorney General Opposes Letting U.S. Tycoon Fund Netanyahu’s Legal Defense
The prime minister seeks to receive outside funding from his cousin Nathan Milikowsky as well as from Partrich. After convening last month, the panel asked the attorney general for his position, as Partrich is listed as a witness in one of the cases against Netanyahu.
7 arrested, including ex-general, as hundreds protest outside Netanyahu’s home
(26.06.2020)
Demonstration part of ongoing ‘black flag’ anti-corruption protests against the prime minister, who is standing trial in a series of graft cases
Unstoppable, Indestructible, Endless Bibi
Since 1999 Netanyahu has managed to exhaust an entire political camp. His battles with the old elites was first and foremost a war of attrition. The noise that this compressor emits is only getting louder. It seems as if we haven’t been able to sleep properly for 20 years – it hasn’t given us a moment’s peace. This isn’t a compressor. This is a force of nature.
Another 10 years of Netanyahu in power is starting to look like a fairly realistic scenario.
Police source says fourth probe into Netanyahu possible, calls PM’s attacks ‚unfounded‘
In response to the new development, a statement released on behalf of the prime minister called the new investigation threat “extortion.”
“The anonymous threats by police investigators to open another futile investigation against the prime minister… is an attempt to silence none other than the prime minister of Israel,” the statement said. “These threats are a clear example of the sickness that must be corrected in order to secure Israel’s democracy.”
Netanyahu vor Gericht: Historischer Prozessauftakt in Israel
Kein israelischer Regierungschef ist länger im Amt als Benjamin Netanyahu. Heute schreibt er erneut Geschichte: Als erster amtierender Premier steht er vor Gericht. Die Anklage: Bestechlichkeit, Betrug und Untreue.
Netanyahu Is Above the Law
Every day that passes provides more proof of the twisted state of Israeli democracy, in which a defendant under criminal indictment leads the government and is a candidate to form the next one.
Report: Gantz to support law keeping Netanyahu minister despite indictments
Israel Resilience party leader Benny Gantz will reportedly support a new law allowing incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to serve in the government despite multiple indictments against him, according to Hebrew media.
Current Israeli Parliament (Knesset) legislation bars elected officials from serving as government ministers while being charged with a crime.
‚Black flag‘ protesters decry ‚corrupt‘ unity deal near Gantz’s home
The activists say they use the black flag, pinning them to the back of vehicles, to symbolize the danger a prime minister under indictment poses to Israeli democracy, according to The Times.
Netanyahu was indicted last year on three charges following a years-long corruption investigation, including breach of public trust, bribery, and fraud.
Israel Election: Netanyahu Leads Gantz in Polls for First Time
Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party is projected to win a narrow lead over Benny Gantz’s Kahol Lavan in next week’s Israel election, according to two polls published Sunday by Channel 12 and Kan public broadcaster.
Netanyahu Withdraws Request for Immunity From Prosecution in Corruption Cases
Netanyahu made his decision public after his chief political rival, Kahol Lavan leader Benny Gantz – who met with Trump on Monday but decided to skip the release of the peace plan in order to take part in the immunity debate – was already back in Israel.
Facing loss in parliament, Benjamin Netanyahu withdraws request for immunity from prosecution
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, hours before facing a likely defeat in the Israeli parliament, withdrew his request for official immunity from prosecution on corruption charges Tuesday, giving up a controversial gambit to shield himself from legal peril a month before a national election.
Will the Knesset Speaker Be Loyal to the Country or to the Man Holding It Hostage?
As Knesset Speaker, Yuli Edelstein has the authority to block the Knesset Arrangements Committee from meeting, thereby blocking the convening of the House Committee and preventing it from discussing the immunity request.
This is Edelstein’s most important test as an elected official: Will he be faithful to his position as Knesset speaker, or will he be faithful to the man who has decided to hold the country hostage?
Requesting Immunity, Master Manipulator Netanyahu Gave One of the Worst Performances of His Life
By requesting immunity Netanyahu hopes to postpone all of this until after the March 2 election. But he knows from all the incessant polling he has carried out that this is a hard sell, even among his right-wing base. In recent days, he tried to float his “immunity is a cornerstone of democracy” canard, but it didn’t fly.
Israel: Netanyahu will Immunität
Am 2. März ist eine dritte Parlamentswahl angesetzt. Nach Einschätzung des Politik-Experten Amir Fuchs wird vor einer Regierungsbildung nach der Wahl kein Komitee zustande kommen. Eine Abstimmung über die Immunität könne damit möglicherweise erst im Mai stattfinden.
Netanyahu Announces He Is Requesting Immunity From Prosecution in Three Criminal Cases
According to Israeli law, the Knesset House Committee is to discuss his request and should it be approved, the request will need to pass a vote by the Knesset plenum.
However, since the House Committee has not been appointed since the April general election, and is not expected to be assembled before the upcoming March election, the discussion will only take place in several months. Until the committee makes a decision, an indictment against Netanyahu can’t be handed officially to the court.
Netanyahu expected to seek immunity as Wednesday deadline looms
Israel’s incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s deadline to formally request immunity from Knesset (Israeli parliament) Speaker Yuli Edelstein expires Wednesday night.
It is expected that Netanyahu will opt for protection from prosecution in three corruption cases against him, Hebrew media reported.
Israel’s High Court delays ruling on whether Netanyahu can be PM
Heading a three-judge panel, High Court of Justice President Esther Hayut said there were no legal impediments holding Netanyahu back from seeking reelection, ruling that the question is not ripe for a decision before he is actually tasked with leading a government.
High Court Petition to Block Netanyahu’s PM Bid Over Corruption Indictment Irrelevant Before Election, Justices Say
The hearing on the metter is held by Supreme Court President Esther Hayut, Deputy President Hanan Melcer and Justice Uzi Vogelman.
Hayut stressed that there isn’t any legal impediment barring Netanyahu from running in the March election, while Vogelman said it’s unprecedented to rule on an issue before an authority was given – in this case the mandate to form a government.
High Court debates whether indicted Netanyahu can form government
Hayut says three-justice panel must first decide whether the court should even debate the issue, echoing instruction from AG; hearing comes after petition by 67 members of academic and high-tech worlds objecting to allowing a Knesset member battling criminal charges to be tasked with putting together a coalition
A-G refuses to tell High Court his view on PM eligibility – again: On Sunday, the High Court set a hearing for December 31 for Mandelblit to argue before it along with other parties about whether Netanyahu can form a government.
(26.12.2019)
https://t.co/2opJERA3xe JPost
The triumvirate: Avigdor Liberman, Avichai Mandelblit & Aviv Kochavi
For a decade, Netanyahu dominated Israel like few others since founding prime minister David Ben-Gurion, leaving a huge imprint on every sphere: diplomatic, economic, military.
But in 2019 – Netanyahu’s own annus horribilis, as Queen Elizabeth II referred to her own “horrible year” in 1992 – his utter dominance began to fade.
Netanyahu to ask Israeli parliament for immunity this week: report
Channel 12 reported earlier this month that Israel’s longest-serving premier will request immunity by the end of December.
Speaking to Israeli-American group, Trump slams Jews who ‘don’t love Israel enough’
In his address, the president surveyed his record of Israel-related policies, including moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, ending U.S. policy labeling settlements as illegal as legal and pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal.
His descriptions of his policies were met with enthusiasm from the audience, including loud applause and vigorous chants of “four more years.”
2019 Dec 08 Trump; Delivers Remarks at Israeli American Council National Summit
Remarks: US President Donald Trump was the keynote speaker on Saturday night at the 2019 Israeli American Council (IAC) National Summit being held in Miami, Florida. Trump was introduced by Sheldon Adelson and Dr Miriam Adelson who said, “President Trump deserves our gratitude as proud Israelis, as proud Americans and as proud Jews, no matter what our politics are.”
Case against Netanyahu includes billionaire witnesses
(02.12.2019)
Mandelblit’s indictment listed 333 potential witnesses, including Milchan and Packer, as well as U.S. casino billionaire Sheldon Adelson, a longtime supporter of Netanyahu, and Oracle Corp. co-founder and chairman Larry Ellison. Cosmetics heir Ron Lauder, another longtime Netanyahu associate, and British-American billionaire Len Blavatnik, also appear on the list.
5 U.S. Billionaires Who Are Potential Witnesses at Netanyahu’s Corruption Trial
The full indictment against Netanyahu, which was made public by Israeli Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit on Monday, includes the names of every person who was either questioned by the police as part of the criminal investigation or testified about it to investigators, plus others who could be relevant to the court cases. The list of 333 names also includes dozens of police officers who were part of the probe.
Ex-tycoon, News Publisher Indicted for Bribery in Netanyahu Cases
(21.11.2019)
Arnon (Noni) Mozes, the publisher of Israel’s largest daily newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth, is indicted for bribery in Case 2000, and Shaul and Iris Elovich are indicted for bribery, obstruction of justice and obstruction of the investigation.
In February, the attorney general announced that he was closing the cases against several other suspects in the Netanyahu cases; among them were the premier’s wife Sara, Hollywood mogul Arnon Milchan and Knesset member Eytan Cabel (Labor-Gesher).
The charges against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, explained
Netanyahu has denied all allegations. He is under no legal obligation to resign now that he has been indicted. He would only have to step down if convicted, a process that could take many more years.
Still, today’s indictment is a big deal, in part because the attorney general’s 63-page report provides a closer look into the charges and evidence against Netanyahu. Here are the main takeaways.
Netanjahu muss wegen Korruption vor Gericht
Nach Angaben des Justizministeriums hat Generalstaatsanwalt Avichai Mandelblit die Anklagen bereits dem Parlamentspräsidenten vorgelegt.
Netanyahu Charged With Bribery, Fraud and Breach of Trust, Capping a Dramatic Political Year
For the first time in Israel’s history, a sitting prime minister is accused of bribery: Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit announced Thursday Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be charged with bribery, fraud and breach in three corruption cases, dubbed Cases 4000, 2000 and 1000.
Israel’s Attorney General Must Decide on Netanyahu Before the Next Election
A third election isn’t the worst alternative among everything that could have happened if Netanyahu had formed a government. But a third election must be held only after Mendelblit announces his decision on the cases against Netanyahu. Mendelblit must decide before the next election.
Mendelblit, Don’t Delay
(14.02.2018)
The police announcement Tuesday – that the investigations into two cases involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been completed – came 13 months after Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit decided that a “preliminary examination” of the allegations, which itself took six months, should become full-fledged criminal investigations.
Israeli Prosecutors’ Conference Postponed Ahead of Netanyahu Indictment
State Prosecutor Shai Nitzan announced Sunday the postponement of a conference for senior prosecutors scheduled for Thursday. His office cited “scheduling constraints” and said a new date would be set for the gathering in Jerusalem.
Likud Expecting Netanyahu Indictment Announcement on Tuesday
As part of its efforts, Likud seeks to stage a joint demonstration with the right-wing Im Tirtzu NGO near Mendelblit’s Petah Tikva home on Monday evening to express support for the prime minister.
Mendelblit, Don’t Delay
(14.02.2018)
The police announcement Tuesday – that the investigations into two cases involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been completed – came 13 months after Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit decided that a “preliminary examination” of the allegations, which itself took six months, should become full-fledged criminal investigations.
Israel’s attorney general scheduled talks regarding Netanyahu indictment
Israeli Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit will be holding talks in the coming week with aims to reach a decision at the end of November on whether or not to …
Mr. Crybaby Netanyahu and His Loyal Legions of Whimpering Whiners
The prime minister and his right-wing followers increasingly rely on hysteria, self-victimization and moral blindness
Gantz Says No Progress Achieved in Talks on Unity Government With Netanyahu’s Likud
Yair Lapid, the No. 2 on the Kahol Lavan roster, said at the party meeting that a government can’t be created in the space of 48 hours, and that all Netanyahu had to agree to was to be second in the rotation – i.e., to agree that Gantz serve as prime minister first, then Netanyahu. But what Netanyahu wants is a third election, Lapid said.
“That’s what his lawyers suggested to him, that’s what he needs because of the indictments,” Lapid said.
Netanyahu Goes After the Police for Seizing Advisers‘ Phones: This Is a Terror Attack on Democracy
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bashed the Israel Police Monday for confiscating the cellphones of his advisers as part of a probe into suspicions that they had harassed a state’s witness who provided testimony in one of the criminal cases against the premier.
Taking to Twitter to denounce the move, Netanyahu wrote that it was „a terror attack on Israeli democracy and the right to privacy that every citizen should enjoy.“
Netanyahu Recordings Reveal Threats to Publisher: ‚I’ll Come After You With Everything I’ve Got‘
The meetings were recorded by Ari Harow, Netanyahu’s bureau chief who turned state’s evidence. Netanyahu knew he was being recorded. Mozes did not.
In one recording, Netanyahu tells Mozes: “…the law itself [to regulate Israel Hayom] is correct and I’ll support it. But if you take me down, I’ll come after you with everything I’ve got… It will become my life’s mission.“
‚The prime minister is not above the law, but neither is he below it,‘ senior #Netanyahu lawyer says as he enters the closed-door corruption hearing
(02.10.2019)
The End of Israel’s Free Press
The indecent acts committed as a result of the relationship between government, money and the media in Cases 2000 (the Yedioth quid-pro-quo affair) and Case 4000 (the Bezeq-Walla affair) are extremely serious. Even if proving criminality is stymied by “legal difficulties,” a term Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit loves to use to describe any complex matter, we’re talking about a complete undermining of the last remaining shred of public confidence in politicians and media outlets.
Fourth and final day of PM’s pre-indictment hearings to highlight Case 2000
Netanyahu’s pre-trial hearings are set to warp up with a case which alleges that Israel’s leader and Yedioth Ahronoth publisher had a quid pro quo of positive coverage for prime minister and his wife in exchange for weakening of rival newspaper
Third Day of Netanyahu Hearing Begins, to Focus on Gifts From Tycoons and Favorable Press
The prime minister’s pre-indictment is expected to focus on Cases 1000 and 2000 – gifts in exchange for political favors, and legislation in exchange for favorable coverage
Binyamin Netanyahu’s last chance to avoid indictment
Even if he is indicted, Mr Netanyahu intends to stay on as prime minister. The law does not require him to step down until a final conviction.
Short and to the Point, Attorney General Mendelblit
The hearing of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the criminal cases against him will begin Wednesday, nearly three years after they were opened. (Cases 1000 and 2000 came first, followed later by Case 3000.) That is an unreasonable period of time, including in comparison to investigations of and legal steps taken against other public figures. Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit is responsible for this.
3 Cases, 4 Days and Dozens of Lawyers: Netanyahu’s Pre-indictment Hearing Begins Wednesday
Twelve of Netanyahu’s lawyers will cram in across from some 20 Justice Ministry officials who have been following the prime minister’s corruption cases since 2016. At the premiere’s request, the hearing will span four days and will end on Monday evening – a day before the eve of the Jewish day of judgement, Yom Kippur.
AG approves four days of hearings in Netanyahu corruption cases, to begin Wednesday
Avichai Mandelblit, who intends to indict the prime minister for bribery, fraud and breach of trust, approved the PM’s request made to hold the hearings over four days to ensure his lawyers would have sufficient time to present full arguments.
Israel’s Attorney General Agrees to Hold Netanyahu’s Pre-indictment Hearing Over Four Days
After being asked by the attorney general to submit the basis of his plea in advance of the hearings last week, Netanyahu sent Mendelblit one page void of explanations to back his statement that he is innocent.
„We regret that instead of complying with this directive, you have found it appropriate to submit a very short document with no actual content,“ Mendelblit’s office wrote in a letter published Thursday.
Israel Election Results: Gantz Capitulates Without Battle
Less than a week after his impressive electoral achievement, the head of the largest Knesset faction, Kahol Lavan leader Benny Gantz, conceded his right to be the first to try and form a coalition government. The explanation given by “party sources” for this concession is that Gantz prefers to wait for Netanyahu to try first and fail.
Regrettably, this lame excuse is unconvincing. This move looks like a capitulation without a fight, an admission that the right wing’s long-standing tactic of delegitimizing parties representing Arab society succeeded.
Benny Gantz’s Tactical Waiting Game Is Too Clever by Half
Netanyahu getting a first nod from the president would land a harsh blow on the center-left’s morale, which could facilitate Netanyahu’s plan to divide the party from within. The nightmarish vision of Netanyahu settling back in the driver’s seat and recklessly pushing the gas pedal to reach his target would make a mockery of his clear-cut defeat in last Tuesday’s election. While Gantz and his colleagues rejoice over sucker Netanyahu supposedly falling into their well-laid trap, their supporters will see them as naive novices who could soon add insult to injury by reneging on their main pledge not to participate in his coalition.
Gantz, Netanyahu meet at President Rivlin’s residence to launch unity talks
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (L) shakes hands with Blue and White party leader Benny Gantz (R) as President Reuven Rivlin looks on, at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, on September 23, 2019.
Netanyahu lawyers submit defense arguments ahead of pre-indictment hearing
Quoting sources in the State Prosecutor’s Office, Channel 12 news reported Netanyahu’s hearing was not likely to be delayed due to the election results, which left no party with a clear path to forming a government.
It is widely believed that had Netanyahu won the election with a clear majority, he would have sought immunity from prosecution via a Knesset vote and then sought legislation to prevent the Supreme Court from overturning any such Knesset decision. I
Investigations involving Benjamin Netanyahu: Case 3000
Three Dolphin-class submarines and four Sa’ar 6-class corvette were purchased from the German company ThyssenKrupp by Israel. The suspicion in this case refers to swaying the deal in ThyssenKrup’s favor for the personal gain of several of the people involved. Netanyahu is not a suspect in Case 3000, though his cousin and personal lawyer David Shimron, who also represented the German company in Israel, is one of the main suspects.
Report: Mandelblit Won’t Reopen Case 3000 Investigation
(29.03.2019)
Blue and White party candidates have in recent days sent many messages to Mandelblit demanding that the case be reopened and that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s role in the affair be re-examined.
Mandelblit wrapped up his investigation in Case 3000 months ago, concluding that Netanyahu was not involved in influence peddling in the sale of submarines by the German company ThyssenKrupp to Israel.
Israel election: Netanyahu suffers devastating blow after hard-right coalition fails to win majority, exit polls indicate
Mr Netanyahu had sought a clear victory with his right-wing partners to secure immunity from three expected corruption trials.
Mendelblit, Don’t Delay
(14.02.2018)
The police announcement Tuesday – that the investigations into two cases involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been completed – came 13 months after Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit decided that a “preliminary examination” of the allegations, which itself took six months, should become full-fledged criminal investigations.
For Netanyahu, winning reelection could be the only way to avoid corruption charges
The prime minister has branded all three cases a baseless “witch hunt.” and his attorneys accused Mandelblit of interfering with elections by announcing his intention to indict during a campaign season.
‚If Netanyahu Wins, Turn Out the Lights‘: Meet the Most Die-hard Opponents of Israel’s ‚Crime Minister‘
As a young Israeli studying abroad, I recently came home for a visit eager to discuss the upcoming elections with family and friends – but found an atmosphere of utter apathy. So I decided to go find people who were actually getting involved, and that’s how I ended up meeting Elisheva and her fellow protestors.
Four Days to the Election, Netanyahu’s Last-minute Surge Hinges on Millennial Apathy
(14.09.2019)
His victory hangs on the fates of racist Otzma and leftist Labor – and on right-wingers coming out in droves while leftists go to the beach
Netanyahu Is Destroying Israel’s Democracy to Survive
Another term would probably leave Israel’s democratic institutions, built through great work and years of care, in ruins. The damage Netanyahu will leave behind will be difficult to repair. On Tuesday, at the voting booths, the people must end his reign.
The above article is Haaretz’s lead editorial, as published in the Hebrew and English newspapers in Israel.
Netanyahu needs to stay in power to avoid indictment. How far will he go to survive? | Analysis
‚Internet, TV, Radio – It’s All Left‘: Latest Leaks Reveal Depth of Netanyahu’s Media Obsession
„A talented man and a crybaby,“ Maariv publisher Eli Azur called Netanyahu, when he was called to testify in Case 2000. „It doesn’t end. At every meeting he cries and cries.“
Netanyahu himself complained in one of his interviews with the police: „The internet, television, radio, everything is left, left, left. Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth are ultra-left. The destructive leftist concentration in Israeli media is dangerous to democracy and to Israel’s future.“
Incitement, the Best Defense
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s frontal assault on Channel 12 television was in line with his permanent strategy: If you can’t silence them, incite against them. Plan A failed when the acting chairman of the Central Elections Committee rejected Likud’s request for an injunction that would bar Channel 12’s legal correspondent, Guy Peleg, from continuing to publish statements made by key prosecution witnesses in the cases against Netanyahu prior to the election. So Netanyahu turned to Plan B – libeling Channel 12 as anti-Semitic and urging the public to boycott the station.
This Election, It’s Good Guys vs. Bad Guys
After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu s shocking attack on Channel 12 television, it s clearer than ever who the good guys and the bad guys are, and the current election revolves around this choice.
Netanyahu Ratchets Up Attack on Production Company, Journalist Reporting His Corruption Probes
PM claims Keshet Media Group, which produced the HBO series ‚Our Boys‘ that he blasted as anti-Semitic, is ‚committing a terror attack against democracy‘
It’s Now Clear: Netanyahu Won’t Rest Until a Journalist’s Blood Is Spilled
We know what should be the fate of perpetrators. The man who more than two decades ago marched in front of a coffin (which he didn’t see, of course, a meter behind him) in a protest against Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, and who incited from a balcony in Zion Square, with posters of Rabin in SS uniform below him (which he didn’t see either), has gone back to his evil ways. Or, as the verse says in another context, as a dog returns to his vomit, so a fool repeats his folly. He seeks chaos, violence and loss of restraint that will allow him to show off his “leadership” and take control of what’s happening.
Netanyahu urges boycott of ‘fake’ Channel 12, calls its ‘Our Boys’ anti-Semitic
Earlier the Central Elections Committee rejected a petition from Netanyahu’s Likud party to bar news outlets from publishing transcripts and documents from Netanyahu’s corruption investigations ahead of national elections next month.
The conversation that may lead to a Netanyahu conviction – Analysis
Until now, we knew from Attorney-General Avichai Mandelblit that the prime minister would likely be indicted, with the timing expected to be by December.
However, Netanyahu has a strong chance of getting Mandelblit to drop any indictment in Case 2000, the Yediot Ahronot-Yisrael Hayom Affair, probably has a 50/50 chance of beating the charges in Case 1000, the Illegal Gifts Affair, and has a series of real defenses even in Case 4000.
Netanyahu’s Wars on Both Iran and Israel
Such trepidations are valid for any caretaker government, all the more so regarding Netanyahu, who’s already suspected of subverting every value of governance to his personal interests. Someone who doesn’t loathe quashing the rule of law to be saved from the terror of the law, who doesn’t hesitate to shamelessly lie to preserve his rule, who isn’t deterred from overturning the parliamentary rules of the game to keep the charges against him from scrutiny seems destined to raise security tensions to distract public opinion from issues he isn’t comfortable with.
Pre-indictment hearing held for tycoon at center of Netanyahu corruption probe
Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit’s lengthy description of Netanyahu’s alleged illicit dealings with Elovitch, known as Case 4000, took up the majority of the 57-page document released in February in which Mandelblit set out the allegations that prompted him to announce a criminal indictment against the prime minister, pending a hearing.
Netanyahu is scheduled to attend his own pre-indictment hearing in the case on October 2-3,
In summary: ? #Netanyahu’s regime must fall for the sake of Jews and Palestinians alike. ?Netanyahu is merely a symptom of a bigger problem, the Israeli occupation which is undemocratic by nature.Its practices leak into Israel & make it look more like the West Bank than Berlin.
Now in Petach Tikva: A thousand people are protesting police brutality and unlawful arrest of anti-corruption activists. Protests in Petch Tikva, where the AG Mendelblit lives occur weekly. Yesterday, activists were arrested for walking down the street.
@nytimesworld Please do a follow up on this story. Israeli police arrest people with no charges, trying to bully people from not protesting ( legally) in front of Attorney General of Israel, Dr. Mandelblit’s home. Apparently by his influence. Brutal arrest of older people.
Four arrested, 3 detained during anti-corruption protests near AG’s home
Anti-corruption activists have been holding regular protests near Mandelblit’s home for years, demanding he indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the corruption cases into his affairs.
Labor Could Join Netanyahu’s Coalition if Prime Minister Not Indicted, Chairman Says
The general election will take place on September 17, and Netanyahu’s pre-indictment hearing is set for October 2 and 3.
Peretz also characterized his joining forces last week with Orli Levi-Abekasis, chairwoman of the Gesher party, as “a chance to win,” otherwise Labor would suffer “sure defeat.”
לא יהיה כלום כי אין כלום? ביבי, אני מכיר אותך היטב. לפי קצב פליטת השקרים, מחוג הלחץ שלך מתקרב ל-100. ביבי, תשתה קצת מים. רק התחלנו
(07.07.2019)
Netanyahu Dirties Up Ehud Barak Over Jeffrey Epstein Scandal So He Looks Cleaner
After months of playing defense against the never-ending stream of details regarding the contents of the prime minister’s pending indictment on corruption charges, one could practically feel the exhilaration in the Netanyahu camp at being able to finally go on the offensive — launching a full-throttle attack against Barak, leader of the new Democratic Israel party.
Netanyahu: Barak connected with pedophile, sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein
(08.07.2019)
Barak attacked Netanyahu again on Sunday evening, telling Channel 12 that the Submarine Affair was not being advanced, despite evidence implicating the prime minister. He said the police want to move the case forward but are being prevented by Mandelblit. He also accused Netanyahu of going overboard in designating his political rivals as leftists.
Sources: Likud and Blue and White Parties Discussing Canceling Elections, Forming Unity Government
Netanyahu and Blue and White party co-chairman Benny Gantz are reportedly not personally involved in any negotiations over a unity government.
Blue and White issued a statement reacting to the report, saying, “There is only one option for cancelling the elections: Netanyahu steps down to deal with his legal issues and Blue and White will lead a wide government.”
Yair Lapid Says Coalition With Netanyahu, Lieberman Is the Right Thing for Israel
Yair Lapid, the co-chair of opposition party Kahol Lavan, said on Sunday that he believes a unity government headed by his outfit is the „right thing for Israel.“
Lapid said he would agree to form a coalition with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in response to comments made by former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman on Saturday.
With Sara’s Conviction, Netanyahus Deceitfully Portray Themselves as Ultimate Victims
Instead of holding his tongue, and thanking the good Lord and the exhausted, hesitant, merciful prosecution for the VIP criminal procedure it granted his wife, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu chose the second option, the one close to his heart: Slandering law enforcement and baseless, ridiculous self-pity.
Dropping Bid for New Delay, Netanyahu Says He Will Attend Pre-indictment Hearing
Netanyahu is currently trying to find additional lawyers, as the former head of his defense team, Navot Tel Zur, resigned. He recently approached several leading defense attorneys, but many have already turned him down due to concerns over payment.
Netanyahu has unpaid debts to his previous lawyers, because he refuses to pay his legal expenses out of his own pocket and has been unable to secure the permits committee’s approval to raise money from his wealthy businessmen friends.
Netanyahu says he’ll attend October pre-indictment hearing
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s lawyer on Monday evening informed the attorney general that his client will attend a hearing on his three criminal cases set for October 2, after failing to convince Avichai Mandelblit to postpone it.
In a video posted online, Netanyahu’s lawyer Amit Hadad said, “We will come to the hearing, but it would have been right to reconsider the date and delay it.”
Netanyahu must inform court today if he will attend indictment hearing
If Netanyahu refuses to confirm his attendance by today’s deadline, then the hearing will be canceled and a summary decision would be made that could lead to his indictment within days or weeks.
Netanyahu Appoints Justice Minister Who Supports Immunity From Indictment for Prime Minister
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed Likud lawmaker Amir Ohana as justice minister on Wednesday. Political sources told Haaretz that Ohana was appointed because unlike other Likud members, he supports changes that would grant immunity from indictment to acting prime ministers, as Netanyahu is facing possible indictment in three cases of fraud, bribery and breach of trust.
Democracy in Netanyahu’s Israel Under Greater Threat Than in Trump’s America, Warns Lawfare Editor
Wittes attributes this dramatic possibility to Israel’s anomalous constitutional regime, which he characterizes as “super-weird.”
Asked to elaborate, he explains in a follow-up email that, beyond the fact that Israel lacks a written constitution (which is not in itself unique), it also has “the combination, on the one hand, of a system of parliamentary supremacy, and, on the other hand, a highly aggressive court that asserts broad authority of judicial review.” Ironically, however, anything the High Court does can be reversed by the legislature, “given that the court’s authority itself is a creature of the Knesset.”
Netanyahu, Suspect in Three Corruption Cases, Is Now Israel’s Justice Minister
Israeli law does not prohibit an outgoing prime minister from appointing or dismissing ministers before an election nor does it require Knesset approval if the appointee is already a Knesset member.
Even Netanyahu Knows It’s Over
Netanyahu may win the new election but it will be too late to push through the High Court override and the immunity from prosecution: Who will sign a coalition agreement with someone on his political deathbed?
Likud tables new Immunity Law proposal
MK Miki Zohar (Likud) submitted on Tuesday a draft for a new Immunity Law, that would prevent MKs from being brought to criminal trial.
Attorney General Delays Netanyahu’s Pre-indictment Hearing Until October
Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit agreed on Wednesday to postpone Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indictment hearing until October.
.@Haaretz poll: 55% of Israelis believe PM Netanyahu is somewhat or very corrupt; 45% have little or no confidence in Attorney-General Mandelblit.
(28.03.2019)
Netanyahu’s Lawyers Ask AG to Put Off Hearing for at Least One Year
Mendelblit, who returned Sunday from a trip to Japan, had asked the lawyers to hold the hearing by July 10, but is expected to agree to a hearing held by the end of September.
No indictment for Netanyahu
(20. April 1997)
Netanyahu told CNN’s Walter Rodgers he was „glad that the truth came out,“ and said the entire incident was „blown out of proportion and twisted out of shape.“
„It’s politics,“ he said in an interview shortly after the attorney general released his report. „Of course there were people out to get us. But this is going nowhere. It’s done. It’s finished.“
Full text: The criminal allegations against Netanyahu, as set out by Israel’s AG
(16.05.2019)
Amid reports the PM will seek legislation that will protect him from prosecution in 3 criminal cases, ToI publishes in English for the first time the full interim charge sheet