Netanyahu Accuses Prosecutors of Distorting Evidence in Case 2000 Hearing

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in court on Monday in the continued proceedings in Case 2000, with his cross-examination led by his lawyer, Amit Hadad. The session focused on rebutting the prosecution’s claims, and Netanyahu accused prosecutors of using “false impressions” and manipulating facts to create the appearance of a crime that never happened.

Hadad presented documents and testimony that he said had been hidden or shown only in part by the prosecution. Netanyahu said the state was trying to portray him as a “lone fighter” against a bill promoted by MK Eitan Cabel, while falsely suggesting he had made a deal with Yedioth Ahronoth publisher Noni Mozes. “They present a false picture,” Netanyahu said, adding that the struggle over the legislation was political survival, not an illicit agreement.

Netanyahu also addressed discussions about the future of Yedioth Ahronoth, saying he never intended to reach a deal with Mozes. “I say clearly that I want a sale,” he said. “I never thought he would change the DNA of Yedioth Ahronoth. The best solution in this case is simply to sell the newspaper.”

He strongly rejected claims about coordination concerning the weekend edition of Israel Hayom, saying prosecutors were lying “brazenly” and had the material before them all along. Case 2000 centers on alleged talks between Netanyahu and Mozes, with the prosecution saying Netanyahu sought legislation to curb Israel Hayom in exchange for favorable coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth. Netanyahu says Mozes initiated the effort and that he never intended to pass such a law.