Netanyahu’s corruption trial features Israel’s opposition leader and former prime minister 2023

On Monday, Israel’s opposition leader testified for the prosecution in Netanyahu’s corruption trial in Jerusalem.

Former prime minister and Netanyahu opponent Yair Lapid is testifying in one of three trials against Netanyahu. Netanyahu’s personal association with Hollywood tycoon Arnon Milchan conflicted with his official obligations, according to the indictment.

According to the indictment, Netanyahu committed personal favors for Milchan, including urging U.S. officials to prolong his residence visa and extending Israeli legislation exempting Israeli returnees from disclosing overseas income.

Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader, denies wrongdoing. He claims the presents were friendly

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Milchan will testify via video conference later this month.

In 2013, Lapid, then finance minister, sought legal guidance on advancing Milchan-benefiting legislation, according to Haaretz. Lapid had already told Netanyahu and Milchan “no way” regarding the measure.

Netanyahu is accused of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery in three media mogul and rich associate scandals. Denies guilt.

Netanyahu denies that he wants to undermine the courts and modify the legal system to avoid trial.

The corruption accusations also sparked a lengthy political crisis that drove Israelis to the polls five times in four years, each vote basically a referendum on Netanyahu’s fitness to lead.

Despite legal issues, Netanyahu returned as prime minister late last year after losing power in 2021 to a coalition of opponents. Israeli legislation does not require the prime minister to resign during trial.

Since May 2020, more than 40 prosecution witnesses have testified, including several of Netanyahu’s erstwhile allies who turned against him. Witness testimony have illuminated the three incidents and shown Netanyahu’s character and family’s reputation for living off taxpayers and rich supporters.