Jerusalem, June 26, 2024 – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s legal team informed the Jerusalem District Court on Wednesday that his testimony in the ongoing corruption trial will be postponed until March next year due to his role in managing the war in Gaza.

In a formal submission, Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, emphasized the logistical and preparatory challenges of readying the Prime Minister’s defense amidst an active conflict.

“Even in peaceful times, preparing a defendant’s testimony on such a scale necessitates a significant period of time,” Hadad stated.

“Given the current situation, with the defense needing to prepare the Prime Minister for testimony during a war, the required period for adequate preparation is significantly extended to ensure his rights and defense are not compromised.”

The high-profile trial, which commenced in May 2020, involves three cases against Netanyahu, focusing on allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

The proceedings have been protracted, with the cross-examination of prosecution witnesses nearing completion. Netanyahu, as the principal defendant, is expected to be the first to undergo cross-examination when the defense starts presenting its witnesses.

Despite being the focal point of the trial, Netanyahu has yet to take the stand. His appearances in court have been sporadic, with most sessions focusing on the testimonies of prosecution witnesses.

These testimonies have provided a detailed look into the allegations against the Prime Minister, who maintains his innocence and describes the charges as a politically motivated witch hunt.

The delay in Netanyahu’s testimony adds another layer of complexity to a trial already characterized by its length and the high stakes involved. Legal experts predict that the trial, including potential appeals, is unlikely to conclude before 2028-2029.

This prolonged timeline means the case will continue to cast a shadow over Netanyahu’s political career and Israel’s political landscape for years to come.

The defense’s request for a delay underscores the unprecedented situation of a sitting Prime Minister managing a significant military conflict while simultaneously being embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle.

The Gaza conflict, which reignited in recent months, has required Netanyahu’s full attention, further complicating his ability to engage with his defense team effectively.

Public reaction to the delay has been mixed. Supporters of Netanyahu argue that the postponement is justified given the extraordinary circumstances, emphasizing the importance of national security and the Prime Minister’s leadership during the war.

Critics, however, view the delay as a tactic to evade justice, expressing concern over the prolonged impact on the judicial process and accountability.

The Jerusalem District Court’s decision on the defense’s request will be closely watched as it balances the need for a fair trial with the practical realities of Netanyahu’s responsibilities as Prime Minister.

In the meantime, the nation remains divided, with the trial and the war in Gaza continuing to dominate Israel’s political and social discourse.

As the trial progresses, all eyes will remain on Netanyahu, whose legal battles and political maneuvers are set to influence the course of Israeli politics for the foreseeable future.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members