Netanyahu trial: Case 2000 hearing cut short for ‘security-diplomatic schedule reasons’

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's criminal trial saw its hearing cut short Monday due to "security-diplomatic schedule reasons." The session in Case 2000, which involves allegations of media bribery, was shortened after Netanyahu's attorneys met with presiding judges Rivka Friedman-Feldman, Moshe Bar-Am, and Oded Shaham.

Netanyahu was summoned to testify Monday through Wednesday this week. Last week's testimony was repeatedly shortened or canceled at his request due to security and diplomatic needs, which were presented to the judges confidentially. The prime minister is nearing the end of his testimony, having appeared for close to 90 hearings. Prosecutors estimate only several full days of cross-examination remain, followed by a shorter redirect examination by Netanyahu's defense attorney.

Case 2000 centers on conversations between Netanyahu and Yediot Aharonot publisher Arnon Mozes between 2008 and 2014. Netanyahu is charged with fraud and breach of trust, while Mozes faces charges of offering and promising a bribe. Prosecutors allege the two discussed advancing their mutual interests: more favorable coverage for Netanyahu in Yediot Aharonot and legislative restrictions on its main competitor, Israel Hayom.

The hearing occurs as Netanyahu has not yet publicly responded to President Isaac Herzog's offer to mediate negotiations for a potential plea deal. The core of Case 2000 involves a recorded December 2014 conversation where prosecutors claim Mozes offered Netanyahu a bribe in exchange for using his governmental power to advance legislation limiting Israel Hayom.

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security-diplomatic schedule reasons