The Jerusalem District Court has denied Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request to suspend his ongoing corruption trial for two weeks, despite his appeal citing pressing national duties following the recent conflict with Iran.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Rivka Friedman-Feldman, stated that the request filed by Netanyahu’s defense attorney, Amit Hadad, "does not present a detailed basis or reason that might justify canceling evidentiary hearings.” The court emphasized the need to uphold judicial proceedings without unwarranted delays, especially in high-profile cases involving public officials.
Hadad argued that the Prime Minister required a two-week break to attend to urgent “diplomatic, national and security issues of the first order,” following the cessation of hostilities with Iran just days earlier. However, the State Attorney’s Office firmly opposed the move, prompting the court’s swift rejection.
This development comes as Israel, alongside the United States, is reportedly working on a sweeping regional strategy to consolidate peace. According to Times of Israel, discussions are underway to finalize a comprehensive deal aimed at ending the war in Gaza and forging normalization agreements with additional Arab nations.
The court’s decision underscores the judiciary's intent to maintain the integrity of the legal process, regardless of the defendant's political position or the gravity of unfolding diplomatic affairs.