The Jerusalem district court announced on 9/4 that the "justice system has resumed operations" following the lifting of emergency restrictions imposed during the conflict with Iran. This means the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will continue, starting with a hearing on 12/4. The court is expected to hear testimony from a witness presented by the defense.

Court operations in Israel had been disrupted by the conflict, but the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command approved a widespread reopening after the United States and Iran reached a temporary ceasefire agreement.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu holds a press conference in Jerusalem on 19/3. Photo: AFP

Prime Minister Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 on charges of bribery, corruption, and breach of trust. The trial began in 2020, examining three cases simultaneously. One case alleges that he and his wife, Sara, received over 260,000 USD in luxury gifts, including jewelry, wine, and cigars, from billionaires in exchange for "political favors". The other two cases involve accusations that he negotiated with media organizations for favorable coverage.

Netanyahu is the first sitting prime minister of Israel to face trial for corruption. He denies all three charges and maintains he is the victim of a political conspiracy.

United States President Donald Trump directly addressed Israeli President Isaac Herzog in 10/2025, speaking before the Israeli parliament and calling for a pardon for Netanyahu. Trump subsequently sent a letter to Herzog before the prime minister's lawyers officially filed a pardon request.

Hong Hanh (According to AFP)