Jerusalem: US President Donald Trump came to the defense of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday, labeling his ongoing corruption trial as a 'political witch hunt'. Trump expressed his views on Truth Social, underscoring Netanyahu's past collaboration with the United States to counter nuclear threats in Iran and negotiate with Hamas for the return of Israeli hostages.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump criticized the legal proceedings against Netanyahu, likening them to his own experiences with political investigations. He described the trial as a travesty that could disrupt crucial negotiations involving Iran and Hamas. Trump also criticized the actions of the prosecutors, branding their efforts as 'insanity'.

Trump emphasized the financial and strategic support the United States provides to Israel, suggesting that the trial undermines recent achievements under Netanyahu's leadership. He urged for the dismissal of Netanyahu's corruption hearing, citing the prime minister's significant contributions to Israel.

Netanyahu is facing three corruption cases, filed in 2019, which involve allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He has denied all accusations, asserting that they are unfounded. The trial, which began on May 24, 2020, marks the first time a sitting Israeli leader has taken the stand as a criminal defendant.

Under Israeli law, Netanyahu is not obliged to resign unless convicted by the Supreme Court, a process that could extend over several months. Additionally, he faces charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, following the issuance of arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court for actions in the Gaza Strip.

Recently, Israel's attorney general denied Netanyahu's request to delay his corruption trial by two weeks. The prime minister had sought a postponement to address other pressing matters, including the return of Israeli captives from Gaza following attacks on Iran.