Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a postponement of his testimony in a long-standing corruption case, citing reasons related to the security and diplomatic situation in the Middle East.
A filing submitted to the Jerusalem District Court stated that Mr. Netanyahu cannot participate in the hearing for at least the next two weeks. The specific reasons were provided in a sealed confidential document attached to the filing.
The trial was expected to resume on Sunday after Israel lifted the state of emergency imposed during the conflict with Iran. The defense stated they were prepared to proceed with the testimony of prosecution witnesses.
Mr. Netanyahu denies the charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust brought against him in 2019 following years of investigation. He is the first sitting Israeli Prime Minister to face criminal prosecution.
The trial process began in 2020 and has been delayed multiple times due to official schedules and security conditions, with no clear end date in sight. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence.
Political and security factors, including regional conflicts and the 2023 Hamas attack, have impacted Mr. Netanyahu's standing. Israel is scheduled to hold elections in October, as polls indicate the governing coalition faces a risk of losing its advantage.
