An Israeli court has postponed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial testimony this week. The decision came after Netanyahu's lawyers requested a delay, citing his need to focus on national security issues following a ceasefire with Iran and ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Israeli hostages are still held.

The Jerusalem district court initially denied the request but reversed its decision after hearing arguments from the prime minister himself, along with the heads of military intelligence and the Mossad spy agency. This highlights the perceived gravity of the security situation.

Adding an international dimension, President Donald Trump publicly called for the case against Netanyahu to be dismissed. Trump described the trial as a "witch hunt" and suggested it "should be CANCELLED, IMMEDIATELY, or a Pardon given to a Great Hero," prompting a public thank you from Netanyahu on X.

Netanyahu has consistently denied all wrongdoing in the long-running corruption affair, maintaining it's politically motivated. The charges include accepting over $260,000 in luxury goods and attempting to negotiate favorable media coverage.

This marks another postponement in a trial that began in May 2020. Netanyahu's current government has also faced massive protests over proposed judicial reforms, which critics argue are designed to weaken the courts.

The ongoing legal battles and political tensions underscore a turbulent period for Israel, with leadership facing both internal scrutiny and complex regional security challenges.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2606281/middle-east