United States President Donald Trump has called for the dismissal of all corruption charges against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing the ongoing prosecution as a politically motivated “witch hunt”.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The United States of America spends Billions of dollars a year, far more than on any other Nation, protecting and supporting Israel. We are not going to stand for this.”
His remarks came shortly after an Israeli court rejected Netanyahu’s request to defer his testimony in his long-running corruption trial, stating that the Prime Minister had failed to provide adequate grounds for postponement.
Luxury gifts and media bribery at heart of charges
Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, are accused of receiving luxury goods worth over $260,000 in exchange for political favours. He is also facing allegations in two other cases that involve attempts to secure favourable coverage by offering benefits to Israeli media houses.
While the Prime Minister has denied any wrongdoing, critics, particularly from Israel’s left and anti-Netanyahu groups, allege that he has intentionally escalated military conflicts to distract from legal scrutiny.
Also read: Trump urges Israel to drop Netanyahu's 'corruption' trial
In recent weeks, Netanyahu has faced renewed criticism over his government’s conduct during the 12-day war with Iran and continuing operations in Gaza. Protesters have accused him of using military escalation as a political tool to deflect attention from his trial, an allegation that his administration has strongly denied.
His government has also come under increasing fire from human rights observers, who have accused Israel of systematic killings in Gaza carried out with “genocidal intent”. The accusations, however, have not resulted in any formal international investigation thus far.
Trump’s continued endorsement
Despite global criticism, Netanyahu has continued to receive unwavering support from Trump. On Wednesday, the former allies appeared to rekindle their rapport, with Trump labelling the corruption charges a “witch hunt”.
Reiterating his stance on Saturday, Trump described Netanyahu as a “war hero”, warning that the trial could derail delicate diplomatic talks. “This travesty of 'Justice' will interfere with both Iran and Hamas negotiations,” he stated.
Netanyahu has publicly thanked Trump for Washington’s backing during the recent hostilities with Iran, which ended in a fragile ceasefire.
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