Israeli Court Postpones Netanyahu’s Graft Trial Testimony Amid Security Threats

An Israeli court postponed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s scheduled July 5 testimony in his ongoing graft trial to September 15, citing heightened security risks following the June 2025 Israel-Iran conflict. 

The trial, launched in 2020, accuses Netanyahu of accepting $200,000 in gifts, including cigars and champagne, in exchange for political favours. The Shin Bet reported a 20% surge in threats against Netanyahu, linked to his handling of the conflict, which damaged 10 Iranian nuclear sites and killed 24 Israeli soldiers.

The delay, approved by Jerusalem’s District Court, divides public opinion, with 40% of Israelis supporting Netanyahu’s claim of political persecution, while 50% demand accountability, per 2024 polls. The trial’s 120 witnesses and 1,500 documents underscore its complexity, with potential penalties including seven years’ imprisonment. 

Netanyahu’s Likud party, holding a 30% parliamentary majority, faces coalition strains as protests disrupt Jerusalem. The court’s decision ensures heightened security for Netanyahu’s eventual appearance, with a verdict expected in 2026.