Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial will continue on Sunday, following the lifting of a state of emergency related to the ongoing conflict with Iran. Iran began striking Israel with missiles and drones after air strikes from Israel and former U. S. President Donald Trump on February 28 aimed at limiting Iran’s influence and nuclear ambitions. The emergency had led to the closure of schools and businesses but was lifted on Wednesday evening after a ceasefire was agreed, with no missile attacks reported since early morning.
Netanyahu is the first sitting prime minister in Israel to face criminal charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, stemming from investigations that began years ago. His trial, ongoing since 2020, has faced delays due to his official responsibilities, and no conclusion is in sight. Trump has urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to consider a pardon for Netanyahu, though pardons during a trial are uncommon. The situation has negatively affected Netanyahu’s popularity as elections approach in October 2023.
With information from Reuters