According to Israeli media reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a postponement of his corruption trial testimony, asking the District Court for an additional two and a half months. His legal team cited recent and pressing security events as the basis, claiming these incidents made it “impossible” for Netanyahu to adequately prepare his defense.
The legal motion stated that escalating developments in the ongoing war created urgent security and diplomatic demands, occupying the time Netanyahu would otherwise dedicate to trial preparation. His defense team argues that this minor delay would allow them to thoroughly prepare for his testimony and would not compromise public interest.
The defense is expected to argue that the active war prevents Netanyahu from preparing for testimony or attending court sessions, as the court lacks a secure room or shelter. Reports indicate that Netanyahu has been working from a fortified room in the basement of the Prime Minister’s Office instead of his usual office on the top floor, following advice from security officials.
According to Channel 12, after Netanyahu’s home was damaged by a Hezbollah drone attack last month, he was directed to operate from the basement’s more secure room. On October 19, an explosive-laden drone from Lebanon struck while Netanyahu was away, shattering a bedroom window and causing minor damage.
Despite corruption allegations, Netanyahu has consistently refused to resign, asserting he can face trial while leading the country. The request for postponement could lead to renewed petitions from government watchdog organizations asking the Supreme Court to require Netanyahu’s resignation. Similar petitions have been denied in the past.
In July, Netanyahu’s legal team had sought to delay the trial from November to March 2025, but the court denied this request, setting the date for December.
Key charges and trial timeline
Netanyahu faces two counts of fraud and breach of trust and a third count of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Indicted nearly five years ago in January 2020, his trial commenced in May of that year. Netanyahu maintains his innocence, describing the charges as part of a “witch hunt” by the police and prosecution.
Though he has not yet taken the stand, Netanyahu has appeared in court multiple times. As the main defendant, he will be the first witness to undergo cross-examination once the defense presents its case.
Critics have noted the slow pace of the trial, estimating that the process, including appeals, may not conclude until 2028-2029.
