Minister Ze'ev Elkin Testifies in Netanyahu Corruption Trial Expressing Discomfort

Minister Ze'ev Elkin testified on Wednesday at the Jerusalem District Court in the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, related to Case 2000 involving Netanyahu's conversations with publisher Arnon (Noni) Mozes. Elkin, called as a defense witness, expressed discomfort about being required to disclose details of political negotiations, warning that such legal scrutiny could negatively impact the work of Knesset members. Netanyahu arrived shortly after Elkin began testifying and left before the testimony concluded.

Elkin stated, "I will answer all questions, but I must say I feel discomfort," describing the process as a criminalization of politics and cautioning that parliament members might be forced to reveal political discussions in future criminal proceedings. He also shared concerns he raised with the Knesset legal advisor after police questioning about exposing political conduct in criminal investigations.

Case 2000 centers on alleged negotiations between Netanyahu and Mozes, where Mozes purportedly offered favorable media coverage in exchange for Netanyahu promoting legislation to restrict the distribution of the rival newspaper Israel Hayom. Netanyahu faces charges of fraud and breach of trust, while Mozes is charged with bribery. Elkin's involvement stems from his role as coalition chairman during the promotion of the Israel Hayom law, including meetings with Netanyahu and Knesset committee chairman Yariv Levin, where they reportedly indicated the law could not advance at that time. The defense argues Elkin's actions show Netanyahu sought to block the law.

Before Elkin's testimony, a dispute arose over the format of his examination, with the prosecution opposing defense lawyer Amit Hadad's request to conduct cross-examination, citing Elkin's close political ties to Netanyahu and potential bias. The court ruled the questioning would start as direct examination and could shift to cross-examination if necessary.

Elkin described the relationship between politicians and media figures as a natural "give and take," common in politics, involving requests for interviews or favorable coverage. He recalled Netanyahu's pessimism before the 2015 elections and internal party tensions. Elkin also explained Netanyahu's strategic interest in the communications portfolio to diversify media and his concerns about pressure from powerful media outlets. When asked if anyone considered the relationship could amount to bribery or breach of trust, Elkin replied that no one thought there was anything criminal involved.