Judges Signal Weak Evidence in Netanyahu Bribery Case Ahead of Trial Conclusion
In the ongoing trial of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, judges have issued a dramatic statement casting doubt on the prosecution's ability to prove bribery charges in Case 4000. According to legal correspondent Netael Bandel, the judges referenced a similar decision from three years ago, highlighting persistent difficulties in establishing bribery beyond reasonable doubt. This time, the statement came after Netanyahu's cross-examination, signaling that the prosecution lacks further evidence to convince the court in criminal proceedings.
Bandel explained that the bribery charge, once considered the core of the case, now appears effectively dismissed by the judges. Defense attorney Amit Hadad skillfully influenced the court by framing the bribery allegation as a reason for numerous defense witnesses, which shifted the trial's focus to procedural matters like witness numbers and trial duration. This tactic was seen as a significant success for the defense.
The article also recalls the role of former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who initially pursued bribery and breach of trust charges in three cases but later removed bribery accusations from two cases while retaining it in Case 4000. This compromise reflected internal caution advised by Deputy Attorney General Raz Nazari.
The prosecution's key argument hinged on proving a quid pro quo arrangement between Netanyahu and businessman Shaul Elovitch, involving favorable coverage by the Walla news site in exchange for regulatory benefits to Elovitch's company Bezeq. Central to this was the so-called "instruction meeting," where Netanyahu allegedly directed the Communications Ministry CEO to benefit Bezeq. However, defense evidence challenged the timing of this meeting, undermining a critical piece of the prosecution's case.
The trial's outcome remains uncertain, but the judges' recent remarks suggest a possible plea deal or acquittal due to insufficient evidence. Meanwhile, Netanyahu continues to focus on political battles, including the upcoming Likud primary elections.
