Netanyahu Defends Notes in Testimony Amid Corruption Trial

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fiercely defended his actions during testimony in his ongoing corruption trial in Tel Aviv, dismissing accusations of impropriety and criticizing the investigation's handling. During Monday’s session, Netanyahu faced scrutiny for receiving notes from aides while testifying, which the prosecution claimed lacked transparency.

Netanyahu responded with indignation, asserting, “I want to give my testimony. But I am the prime minister.” He emphasized the difficulty of balancing his responsibilities as the nation’s leader with the demands of court proceedings, pushing back on the suggestion that every note be reviewed by the judges or prosecution.

Netanyahu and his lawyer, Amit Haddad, criticized the rapid pace of the police investigation, suggesting it was conducted recklessly. The defense cited a statement from one investigator boasting about how quickly the inquiry was completed.

“Why did you run?” Netanyahu asked rhetorically. “It was the fastest investigation ever.” He claimed the investigators failed to ask him pertinent questions, did not provide sufficient materials, and gave him no opportunity to adequately respond to allegations.

When asked if the defense intended to address all 315 items in the bribery charge, Haddad stressed that he intended to take the time to thoroughly examine the evidence, which he alleged the prosecutors had rushed through.

Netanyahu also rejected claims that he used a middleman, Zeev Rubinstein, to communicate with Shaul Elovitch, owner of Walla and Bezeq, as part of an alleged bribery scheme. Prosecutors have accused Netanyahu of trading favorable media coverage on Walla in exchange for regulatory benefits for Bezeq.

“If I wanted to contact Elovitch, I could have picked up the telephone,” Netanyahu said. He argued it would have been illogical to rely on Rubinstein, who was in the U.S. during the critical "money time" of his campaign, especially since Rubinstein lacked expertise in Israeli politics.

Netanyahu also claimed that Rubinstein, if involved at all, acted independently out of a desire to please the prime minister’s wife, Sara Netanyahu. “I don’t remember that I spoke to Rubinstein once during the campaign,” he added.

Netanyahu’s corruption trial involves three major cases:

• Case 4000: Alleging that Netanyahu granted regulatory benefits to Shaul and Iris Elovitch in exchange for positive media coverage on Walla.

• Case 2000: Accusing Netanyahu of negotiating with Arnon Mozes, publisher of Yediot Aharonot, to weaken rival newspaper Yisrael Hayom in exchange for favorable coverage.

• Case 1000: Claiming Netanyahu received lavish gifts from businessman Arnon Milchan in return for advancing his interests.

Netanyahu has consistently denied all charges, characterizing them as politically motivated.

In an unexpected turn, Netanyahu’s defense team requested the cancellation of Tuesday’s court session without providing a public explanation. Judges required the defense to submit a confidential written justification. After reviewing the note, the courtroom was cleared of media and spectators, allowing private deliberations between the legal teams.

As Netanyahu continues to navigate the trial, his defiant stance highlights his commitment to challenging the charges while maintaining his position as Israel’s longest-serving prime minister.

Israel stands at a pivotal moment as its leader battles allegations that could reshape its political landscape. Share this story and stay informed on developments shaping the future of the Jewish state. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates.