Israel’s PM Netanyahu indicted on graft charges
Jerusalem, January 28
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was formally indicted on corruption charges on Tuesday, hours after he withdrew his request for parliamentary immunity in the three graft cases against him, becoming the first sitting premier to face criminal charges.
First PM to face trial
Benjamin Netanyahu (70) will be the first sitting PM to face trial in the country’s history. A trial date hasn’t been set yet, but the legal process could possibly take years.
Netanyahu, 70, has been charged with bribery and fraud and breach of trust in three separate corruption cases. Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit submitted the indictment in Jerusalem District Court.
Netanyahu will be the first sitting prime minister to face trial in the country’s history. A trial date has not been set yet, but the legal process could possibly take years.
“The indictment was filed a short time ago… as is required by law,” Mandelblit’s office stated.
A spokesperson for the Justice Ministry said once a member of Knesset (Israeli parliament) rescinds his immunity request, he must be treated like any other citizen and the ministry has to immediately file indictment against him with the court.
Under Israeli law, Netanyahu does not have to resign upon indictment.
He only has to resign if he is convicted and that conviction is upheld through the appeals process.
The move came after Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, withdrew a request for parliamentary immunity from prosecution on charges.
The Israeli leader made his decision public through a Facebook post from Washington, where he is on a visit to meet US President Donald Trump before the latter announces his plan for peace between Israel and the Palestinians. — PTI
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