Tel aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared before the Tel Aviv District Court for the 79th time in response to corruption charges against him. The ongoing trial centers on Case 4000, where Netanyahu is accused of maintaining a bribery relationship with businessman Shaul Elovitch, involving demands for favorable media coverage on the Walla news website.

According to Anadolu Agency, the indictment details accusations that Netanyahu and his family requested the Elovitch family to limit coverage of Netanyahu’s political rivals. Protesters gathered outside the courthouse, demonstrating against Netanyahu, who denies the allegations.

The trial continues amid significant political tension in Israel, with Netanyahu formally requesting a pardon from President Isaac Herzog. Despite seeking a pardon, Netanyahu has not admitted guilt or indicated any intention to leave his political career. Israeli law stipulates that a pardon can only be granted if the defendant acknowledges wrongdoing.

Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000, with indictments filed in late November 2019. Case 1000 involves allegations of receiving luxurious gifts from businessmen in exchange for favors. Case 2000 accuses Netanyahu of negotiating for favorable media coverage with Arnon Mozes of Yedioth Ahronoth. Case 4000, which is currently under examination, involves regulatory decisions benefiting Elovitch in return for positive media portrayal.

Netanyahu’s trial began in 2020 and remains ongoing. Consistently denying the charges, Netanyahu describes them as a ‘political campaign aimed at toppling’ him. Beyond the corruption trial, Netanyahu is also wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The military offensive in Gaza, backed by the US and launched in October 2023, resulted in significant casualties and destruction over two years.