Netanyahu's Lawyers Seek to Call Former Attorney General to Testify

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's defense team has requested to call former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit to testify in his ongoing corruption trial. The defense aims for Mandelblit's testimony to take place shortly before the upcoming elections, specifically on October 11-12 and 18-22. The defense had previously indicated its intention to summon Mandelblit, who served as the legal advisor under whom the investigations were opened and the indictment against the prime minister was approved, to provide testimony.

It is speculated that the timing of his testimony, occurring between two weeks and just days before the elections, is intended to generate significant media attention during this critical period. The defense also stated that they are "trying to destroy the few checks and balances that democracy in Israel has."

In related news, President Isaac Herzog commented on the prime minister's trial in an interview with Kan News, stating that he "thinks this case needs to end." Herzog suggested that the principles of justice could be met through a settlement and reiterated his offer to mediate under the auspices of the President's Residence. He noted that Netanyahu has not yet responded but that he is intentionally leaving the door open for discussion and resolution.

In recent months, pressure has been exerted on Herzog to grant Netanyahu a presidential pardon, including from former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Herzog froze the pardon process after Netanyahu completely ignored an invitation to engage in discussions aimed at reaching an agreement on the matter.