Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would seek immunity from corruption charges, likely delaying any trial until after elections he hopes will win him a majority coalition that will shield him from prosecution
After failing to assemble a governing majority following back-to-back elections last year, he will get aWednesday’s announcement essentially turns the upcoming election into a referendum on whether Netanyahu should be granted immunity and remain in office, or step down and stand trial. A recent poll indicated that a majority of Israelis oppose giving him immunity.
Netanyahu said he was not evading justice and still plans to go to court to fight the “fabricated accusations.” The uncertainty means it could be many months before a new government is formed, leaving the question of immunity on hold with Netanyahu remaining in office. On Tuesday, Israel’s Supreme Court began discussions on the matter. If the court decides Netanyahu is ineligible, it could potentially bring his three-decade political career to an abrupt end after the March election.
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