MK Tali Gottlieb Condemns Prosecution After Bribery Charge Dropped in Netanyahu Trial

On Monday, Likud MK Tali Gottlieb sharply criticized the Israeli State Prosecution following the judges' decision to drop the bribery charge in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Case 4000 trial. Speaking on Channel 14's "Midday Journal," Gottlieb called the ruling a "foundational acquittal" and accused the prosecution of conducting a decade-long, politically motivated witch hunt against Netanyahu and right-wing voters.

Gottlieb argued that the bribery allegation, that Netanyahu received unusually favorable media coverage in exchange for regulatory benefits to Bezeq, was disproven. She cited former Deputy Attorney General Dina Zilber's report stating Netanyahu acted on professional advice and did not grant any improper favors. Gottlieb condemned the prosecution's lead attorney for failing to produce evidence during the trial, describing the process as a disgrace to the legal system.

When asked if anyone in the judicial system would be held accountable for the flawed case, Gottlieb responded negatively, predicting that the indictment would be withdrawn before a verdict. She also criticized current Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara for allegedly refusing to investigate significant issues, including leaks to media about an Iranian attack. Gottlieb emphasized her defiance against what she called a "judicial junta," asserting she would not be intimidated on behalf of the public she represents.

The development marks a significant setback for the prosecution in one of Israel's most high-profile political trials, with the bribery charge, the most serious accusation, now effectively dismissed. The case's future hinges on whether other charges will proceed and how the legal and political ramifications unfold.