Criminal probe launched into Israeli PM Netanyahu’s wife

The investigation follows a December report by Israeli Channel 12’s Uvda news programme, which alleged that Sara Netanyahu tried to intimidate a key witness in her husband’s ongoing trial. The programme also claimed she organised demonstrations targeting the Attorney General, his deputy, and other officials seen as hostile to Benjamin Netanyahu.

The state attorney’s office said the case is being handled by the Israel Police alongside the cyber department of the attorney’s office.

Benjamin Netanyahu is currently on trial for bribery, fraud, and breach of public trust in three separate cases.

In December, he testified in court, calling the charges “ridiculous.” His trial, which began in May 2020 and has faced multiple delays, is expected to last for months, with possible appeals further prolonging the process.

Netanyahu, the first sitting Israeli prime minister to face a criminal trial, has denied any wrongdoing. One case alleges that he and his wife accepted over $260,000 worth of luxury goods, including cigars, jewellery, and champagne, from billionaires in exchange for political favours.

(With inputs from Gulf News)

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