By Steven Scheer JERUSALEM, April 10 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked to postpone giving testimony in his long-running corruption trial that was set to resume next week, citing
Netanyahu Seeks Delay in Corruption Trial Testimony Due to Security Situation
Overview of Netanyahu's Corruption Trial and Recent Developments
By Steven Scheer
Request for Postponement
JERUSALEM, April 10 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked to postpone giving testimony in his long-running corruption trial that was set to resume next week, citing the ongoing security situation in the region, Netanyahu's lawyer said in a court filing on Friday.
Trial Schedule and Security Context
Netanyahu's trial was set to resume on Sunday, after Israel lifted a state of emergency imposed over its war with Iran following Wednesday's ceasefire announcement. The defence said it was prepared to continue hearing the testimony of a prosecution witness.
Classified Security and Diplomatic Reasons
"Due to classified security and diplomatic reasons connected ... to the dramatic events that have taken place in the State of Israel and throughout the Middle East in recent times, the Prime Minister will not be able to testify in the proceeding for at least the next two weeks," the filing to the Jerusalem District Court said.
Sealed Envelope Submission
It said that a sealed envelope detailing the classified reasons was delivered to the court, which will rule once the prosecution submits its response.
Background on Netanyahu's Charges
Netanyahu, the first sitting Israeli prime minister to be charged with a crime, denies charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust brought in 2019 after years of investigations.
Delays and Potential Consequences
His trial, which began in 2020 and could lead to jail terms, has been repeatedly delayed due to his official commitments, with no end date in sight.
Political Impact and Upcoming Election
The charges against Netanyahu, along with the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023, have damaged his standing. Israel is due to hold an election in October that Netanyahu's coalition, the most right-wing in Israel's history, is likely to lose, according to polls.
(Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by Alex Richardson)
