Netanyahu requests postponing his corruption trial for ‘secret security and political reasons' reasons

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested a postponement of his corruption trial Friday for at least two weeks, citing "secret security and political reasons," according to the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation.

Netanyahu did not specify the reasons for his request, and it remains unclear whether the Jerusalem District Court will grant it in full or in part.

The court decided Thursday to resume the trial Sunday, after it was suspended due to the US-Israeli attack on Iran, which began Feb. 28.

The US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire Tuesday, brokered by Pakistan, as a step toward a possible broader agreement to halt the conflict that has left thousands dead and wounded.

US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire followed a “workable” 10-point proposal presented by Iran, with negotiations expected to determine whether a longer-term agreement can be reached.

Netanyahu faces bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges in three cases known as Cases 1000, 2000 and 4000. Prosecutors filed indictments in the cases in November 2019.

Case 1000 centers on allegations that Netanyahu and members of his family received expensive gifts from wealthy businessmen in exchange for favors and assistance in various matters.

In Case 2000, he is accused of negotiating with Arnon Mozes, the publisher of the privately owned Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, to secure favorable media coverage.

Case 4000 involves allegations that Netanyahu advanced regulatory decisions benefiting Shaul Elovitch, the former owner of the Walla news website and a former executive at the Bezeq telecommunications company, in exchange for positive coverage.

Netanyahu’s trial began in 2020 and remains ongoing. He denies the charges, calling them a “political campaign aimed at toppling” him.

In addition to the corruption trial, Netanyahu has been wanted since 2024 to appear before the International Criminal Court on accusations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip.

*Writing by Rasa Evrensel in Istanbul