Netanyahu Trial: Minister Elkin's Testimony Becomes Key Battleground

The criminal trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resumed on Monday with a tense cross-examination of Minister Ze'ev Elkin in Case 2000. Elkin, appearing for the third time, previously described a "natural symbiosis" and regular briefing system between politicians and publishers. While his earlier testimony supported Netanyahu's defense, the prosecution is now attempting to undermine his account.

Case 2000 concerns alleged discussions between Netanyahu and Arnon Mozes, publisher of Yedioth Ahronoth, about favorable coverage in exchange for legislative actions against the rival Israel Hayom newspaper. Netanyahu is accused of fraud and breach of trust. The defense argues that such interactions with media are standard political practice.

Elkin's previous statements described his own practice of briefing journalists and publishers, framing these as routine. The defense is using this to argue that Netanyahu's conversations with Mozes were not criminal but part of normal political conduct. The prosecution aims to differentiate between standard briefings and the specific "quid pro quo" alleged in the indictment.

A significant point raised by Elkin himself was why the prosecution, despite police having questioned him under caution, chose not to call him as a state witness. He questioned why they ignored him for four years while he was in the opposition and a political rival. The defense seized on this, suggesting the prosecution's omission indicates a fear that Elkin's testimony would contradict their case and support the defense's claim of common practice.