Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu may be negotiating a plea bargain with the police to avoid standing trial for corruption, reports said Tuesday.
Netanyahu is facing an indictment for bribery and breach of trust in three corruption cases – two that also allegedly involve his wife, Sara – over suspicions he accepted lavish gifts from wealthy supporters.
In one case, Netanyahu is suspected of accepting “favors” from Israeli Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and the Australian billionaire James Packer.
In a second case, he is suspected of engaging in a “quid pro quo” deal with the publisher of the biggest-selling Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. Netanyahu offered to pass legislation extending the period when victims of sex crimes can file lawsuits if Yedioth Ahronoth owner Arnon Mozes stopped printing articles allegedly critical of him and his wife.
In the third case, Netanyahu is accused of offering preferential treatment to a newspaper publisher in exchange for favorable coverage.
The prime minister has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in all three cases, describing them as “baseless.” This follows a 2019 indictment, after which the then leader refused to resign.
Citizen Sentiment
According to polls done by Israeli channels 11 and 12, most citizens do not favor the former prime minister receiving a plea deal. 80% opposed this deal, while 20% of the public was supportive.
The majority (63%) of Israelis do not think that Mr. Netanyahu is corrupt; however, most believe that he is “capable” of corruption (78%).
Potential Outcome
The Guardian reports that the plea could see Netanyahu barred from political life for up to seven years.
TV channel 10 reported that the deal would also see him testify against his former aide, Ari Harow, who turned state witness in August 2016.
It is unlikely that he will serve any prison time because Israeli law exempts the president, the Knesset speaker, and cabinet ministers from such punishment unless they are convicted of serious crimes.
If Netanyahu were to reach a plea bargain, it would open up the possibility of him having immunity for any future indictment in another case against him.
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