Israeli Prime Minister Attacks Media in Corruption Trial

(CLO) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appeared in court for the first time in a years-long corruption case. He has accused the Israeli media of deliberately attacking him over " political issues."

The trial took place on December 10 in Tel Aviv, against the backdrop of Israel facing a protracted war in Gaza and new regional uncertainties, including the situation in Syria.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrives at a hearing at the district court in Tel Aviv on November 10. Photo: AP

Netanyahu, 75, is the first Israeli prime minister to face criminal charges while in office. He has been indicted since 2019 on charges of receiving gifts from wealthy friends and seeking favors from media moguls in exchange for favorable news coverage. However, he denies all wrongdoing and maintains his innocence.

During his first four-hour hearing, Netanyahu asserted that the accusations were the result of "political revenge" from journalists and the left wing. He declared: "I have waited eight years to tell the truth. I am leading the country through a war on seven fronts, and I believe I can accomplish both tasks simultaneously."

Prior to Prime Minister Netanyahu's trial, Israeli public opinion was deeply divided by his legal troubles, particularly the government's attempts to restrict the power of the judiciary. The war in Gaza and tense negotiations over the release of 100 hostages held by Hamas further complicated the situation.

During the hearing, Netanyahu's lawyer, Amit Hadad, argued that the investigation into the Prime Minister was not a criminal search but rather "hunting down an individual." The prosecution rejected this accusation, asserting that the evidence was thoroughly and transparently collected.

Netanyahu's legal situation is further complicated by the recent arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against him and several other high-ranking officials on charges of war crimes in the Gaza conflict.

Meanwhile, small protests took place outside the courthouse, where some supporters of Netanyahu and others demanded that he do more to resolve the hostage situation and the ongoing conflict.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters, SMH)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/thu-tuong-israel-cong-kich-truyen-thong-trong-phien-toa-xet-xu-tham-nhung-post325069.html