Elkin Testifies in Netanyahu Trial Hours Before Likud Primary Decision

Zeev Elkin, a former Likud minister, testified on Wednesday in the corruption trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His testimony comes just hours before the Likud party is set to decide on its list of candidates for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections, a process that includes determining the placement of "reserved" spots, often referred to as "tanks" or "armored vehicles," which are typically allocated to loyalists or specific factions.

Elkin's testimony is part of the evidence presented in Case 1000 of Netanyahu's trial, which concerns allegations of bribery and breach of trust. The trial has been ongoing for several years, with various witnesses, including former associates and confidants of the Prime Minister, taking the stand.

The article also touches upon other significant news items, including warnings from the IDF that it may struggle to defend new settlements and outposts in the West Bank. Additionally, it reports on a stabbing attack near Nablus where a 20-year-old was moderately to severely injured, leading to a lockdown of surrounding villages. In a separate development, a study revealed that nearly 1,400 doctors left Israel over a three-year period. The article also briefly mentions ongoing international pressure on Iran and the possibility of an escalation initiated by Tehran, according to military intelligence.