Netanyahu's Court Appearance Moved to Underground Location
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to appear in court next week to defend himself against multiple corruption charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. In a significant security measure, the Israeli internal intelligence agency, Shin Bet, has recommended that Netanyahu's testimony be held in a protected underground courtroom in Tel Aviv, rather than the Central Court in Jerusalem. This decision follows top-secret information that prompted the court administration and the General Security Service (Shabak) to support the move.
The testimony, originally scheduled for December 2, has been postponed to December 10, 2024, after Netanyahu requested a two-week delay, citing his involvement with the International Criminal Court regarding an arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The hearings are expected to last around 20 days, although the exact duration will depend on the needs of both the defense and prosecution.
Security Concerns Surrounding Netanyahu's Trial
Netanyahu's trial began in May 2020, following charges brought against him in January of the same year. This upcoming session marks a critical point in his legal battles, as he seeks to clear his name amid ongoing political and social tensions in Israel. The decision to conduct the hearing in an underground facility underscores the heightened security concerns surrounding the Prime Minister, reflecting the contentious atmosphere surrounding his administration and the legal proceedings against him.
