Netanyahu indicted on corruption charges

Prosecutors in Israel have indicted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a litany of charges including bribery, fraud and breach of trust. The accusations add further political uncertainty after two elections failed to produce a decisive winner.

 

The indictment is the first of its kind against a sitting Prime Minister. They center on allegations that Netanyahu leveraged his position to receive favorable media coverage and preferential treatment.

 

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Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing, describing the charges as politically motivated.

He said, "Tonight, we are witnessing an attempted coup against a prime minister, using false accusations, and a systematically tainted and biased investigation."

 

Israeli law allows Netanyahu to remain in office unless proven guilty and it is unclear when or if the case will go to trial.

 

Israel had been gripped by political deadlock after inconclusive elections in April and September. Observers say voters will likely head to the polls for a third time next year.

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