Finance Minister Ze'ev Elkin Testifies in Netanyahu's Corruption Trial as PM Attends Court

Ze'ev Elkin, Israel's Finance Minister, testified on July 15, 2026, as a defense witness in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial at the Jerusalem District Court. Netanyahu attended the session in person, an unusual move highlighting the testimony's significance. Elkin's testimony focused mainly on Case 2000, which centers on the alleged quid pro quo relationship between Netanyahu and Noni Mozes, publisher of Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper.

During questioning by Netanyahu's lawyer, Amit Hadad, Elkin described the interactions between politicians and media figures as a natural "give-and-take" relationship, denying that the exchanges constituted bribery. He stated, "Every politician manages a relationship of give-and-take with the media," emphasizing that such interactions are common and not criminal.

The defense requested to cross-examine Elkin, but the prosecution opposed this, arguing that Elkin is closely aligned with Netanyahu politically and dependent on him, which could bias his testimony. Prosecutor Gilad Gildin explained that Elkin did not recall many relevant details, which was why he was not called as a prosecution witness. The judge questioned the relevance of these concerns to the defense's right to cross-examine, but the prosecution maintained their position.

Elkin expressed discomfort with the prosecution for not summoning him as a witness, asserting he could clarify what he knows without assistance. His name appears 14 times in the indictment, particularly regarding his role as coalition chairman during legislation aimed at benefiting Yedioth Ahronoth while restricting the Israel Hayom newspaper. The indictment alleges Netanyahu concealed from Mozes Elkin's plan to stall the bill in the Knesset committee and also withheld from Elkin the details of his conversations with Mozes.

The trial continues as the court weighs the defense's requests and the credibility of key witnesses like Elkin.