Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has received temporary relief in a major corruption case. Following recent comments by former US President Donald Trump, an Israeli court has adjourned the proceedings against Netanyahu.
Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has received significant relief in the corruption case from the Jerusalem District Court. The court has postponed the hearing, halting his testimony for the next two weeks. This decision came after former US President Donald Trump reacted sharply to the case, calling it a "political conspiracy" and openly supporting Netanyahu.
Netanyahu has been facing three separate corruption cases for the past four years, involving charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Recently, the court rejected his petition to continually postpone the hearings, but a few days later, it granted him temporary exemption from testimony, citing national security and diplomatic reasons.
Trump Takes Aim
Following the relief granted to Netanyahu, Donald Trump wrote on his social media site, Truth Social, "What is happening to a great leader like Netanyahu in Israel is disgraceful." He added that Netanyahu had cooperated with the United States in preventing the Iranian nuclear threat, and that he is a true warrior. Trump described the case against Netanyahu in Israel as a conspiracy, stating that it would hinder the ceasefire and efforts to release hostages in Gaza.
He also warned that the US spends billions of dollars annually on Israel's defense and cooperation, and that he would not tolerate such proceedings interfering with Israel's national interests.
Court's Argument: National Security Priority
The Jerusalem court stated in its order that compelling Prime Minister Netanyahu to testify in the current situation could adversely affect Israel's national security and foreign policy. The court adjourned the hearing for two weeks on this basis. Netanyahu's lawyers had also argued that the Prime Minister's active involvement on several international fronts was necessary at this time, especially concerning the situations in Iran and Gaza. The court agreed, stating that Netanyahu should be given temporary relief.
Netanyahu Expresses Gratitude
Following Trump's supportive statement, Netanyahu also responded and thanked Trump. He said, "Thank you again, Donald Trump. Together we will make the Middle East stable and b again." Netanyahu also added that he is committed to the interests of the Israeli people and regional peace, and will be ready to face the legal challenges soon.
The corruption cases against Netanyahu have continually caused upheaval in Israeli politics. Opposition parties have repeatedly demanded his resignation regarding these cases. However, Netanyahu himself has maintained his innocence and called the accusations a political conspiracy.
