Benjamin Netanyahu asks for immunity from corruption charges
Move would delay trial until after March elections, when a win would protect Israeli prime minister from prosecution
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Israel‘s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will ask for immunity from corruption charges in a move that could delay his trial for months.
The request to parliament is expected to put the trial on hold until after elections in March, when Mr Netanyahu hopes to shield himself from prosecution by winning a majority coalition.
His announcement means the forthcoming election campaign is likely to focus on whether he should be granted immunity or step down to stand trial.
A recent poll indicated that a majority of Israelis oppose giving him immunity.
The right-wing Likud party leader was indicted in November on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust over allegations he granted state favours worth hundreds of millions of dollars to Israeli media barons in return for gifts and favourable coverage.
He denies any wrongdoing, saying he is the victim of a witch-hunt by the media and the left to oust him.
Mr Netanyahu, who failed to assemble a governing majority following back-to-back-elections last year, plans to attempt to win a third term in office in March.
In a nationally televised address, he repeated his assertion that he was the victim of an unfair conspiracy and that he would seek to invoke the law that would protect him from prosecution while still in office.
“In order to continue to lead Israel to great achievements, I intend to approach the speaker of the Knesset in accordance with chapter 4C of the law, in order to fulfil my right, my duty and my mission to continue to serve you for the future of Israel,” he said.
The request is likely to mean parliament will address the matter after the March elections.
The current caretaker government is not empowered to make a decision on granting immunity.
To debate the matter, parliament would have to appoint a special committee that needs to study the request. But it remains unclear whether it will be allowed to do so.
Additional reporting by agencies
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments