Netanyahu's Lawyer Believes Bribery Charge Weak, Dismissal Unlikely

Lawyer Sashi Gz, representing Benjamin Netanyahu, has stated that while the investigation into the prime minister's corruption trial, known as Case 4000, was deeply flawed, the chances of the entire trial being dismissed are almost zero. Gz criticized the investigation's shortcomings, citing numerous errors and problematic aspects that have emerged, particularly following the testimony of former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit. He argued that such significant failures in a case involving a prime minister are unacceptable and raise serious questions about the conduct of the police and prosecution.

Despite these criticisms, Gz believes that legal precedent in Israel generally does not lead to the dismissal of an entire indictment based on evidence obtained improperly, even if some investigative methods were questionable or even "shocking." He emphasized that proving the prosecution acted with improper motives to overthrow the government would require substantial evidence, which he believes is lacking. Gz pointed to Mandelblit's decision not to open a criminal investigation into Netanyahu in the submarine affair as evidence that the former AG did not seek to politically harm the prime minister.

Furthermore, Gz noted that Mandelblit's final decision on the charges was actually less severe than what the prosecution initially recommended, suggesting the Attorney General did not act against Netanyahu's interests. He also highlighted that the judges themselves have expressed difficulties in proving the bribery charge in Case 4000, indicating a potential acquittal on that specific count. Gz is convinced that Netanyahu will be acquitted of the bribery offense, irrespective of the investigative flaws.

However, Gz cautioned that his assessment of acquittal applies specifically to the bribery charge, not necessarily to the other charges in Case 4000, such as breach of trust, which remain part of the indictment. He also commented on the defense strategy led by lawyer Amit Haddad, suggesting that prolonging the trial is a beneficial tactic for the defense. Gz's overall assessment separates the need for significant reforms in investigative practices from the legal possibility of dismissing the entire trial due to alleged political motives.