JERUSALEM, June 30 (Alliance News): An Israeli court has postponed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial for two weeks, granting him temporary immunity from appearing in court due to diplomatic and national security concerns.
The Jerusalem District Court’s decision came shortly after former US President Donald Trump publicly defended Netanyahu on social media, calling the ongoing legal proceedings “horrible” and urging Israel to drop or delay the charges.
Trump warned that continuing with the trial during a critical time could obstruct Netanyahu’s efforts to secure a hostage deal with Hamas.
“The prime minister of Israel is busy trying to negotiate the release of hostages. Should someone with his record of success, especially on Iran, be forced to spend his days in a courtroom?” Trump questioned in a post.
The court cited Netanyahu’s pressing diplomatic responsibilities and ongoing national security matters as grounds for the delay.
However, the timing of the decision, coming just hours after Trump’s statement, has raised eyebrows.
There is speculation in both Israeli and international media that Trump’s remarks could have influenced the court’s ruling.
Trump also hinted that the future of US aid to Israel could be impacted by the outcome of Netanyahu’s case.
Netanyahu faces three separate cases involving charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He has denied all allegations, calling the trial a politically motivated “witch hunt.”
The case, which has been ongoing since 2020, has had a significant impact on Israeli politics and Netanyahu’s leadership.
Critics say the postponement undermines judicial independence, while supporters argue it is necessary due to the volatile security situation in the Middle East and Netanyahu’s role in key negotiations.
The court has rescheduled the next hearing for mid-July, stating that any further delay will depend on national circumstances and Netanyahu’s availability.
