Australian Probe Reveals $1.25 Million in Payments to Netanyahu's Lawyer

An Australian journalistic investigation has revealed that billionaire James Packer transferred at least $1.25 million to the law firm of Amit Haddad, who represents Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his corruption trial. The payments, which began in September 2024, involve $50,000 monthly transfers from Packer's Consolidated Press International investment arm to the firm's account in Israel. These funds started flowing approximately two months after Netanyahu and Packer reconnected in July 2024, following an eight-year estrangement. The transfers have raised serious questions, particularly as Packer was a key figure in Case 1000, the "gifts affair," where Netanyahu is accused of fraud and breach of trust for allegedly receiving gifts worth approximately NIS 229,174 from Packer between 2014 and 2016. Notably, Packer himself was not charged or called to testify, while Israeli authorities have repeatedly barred Netanyahu from receiving funds from wealthy supporters for his defense.

A source close to Packer confirmed the payments but denied any connection to Netanyahu's legal proceedings, stating the funds were for "work performed for Packer, including identifying deals in Israel, where Packer has business interests." However, the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Packer and his company provided no evidence of such deals or work performed by the law firm. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister dismissed inquiries about the matter, citing ongoing elections. Both Haddad and Packer declined to comment. An informed source suggested the matter warrants urgent investigation, as any direct or indirect benefit to Netanyahu from these payments could constitute a serious violation of Israeli and potentially U.S. law.