Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday requested the postponement of his trial hearings for the next two weeks, following medical recommendations following his prostate operation. This request comes three days after his controversial presence in the Knesset, against the advice of his doctors. The request, transmitted by his lawyer Amit Hadad, specifies that “according to the exit documents, the Prime Minister must observe two weeks of rest at home”. The prosecutor’s office agreed, “provided that medical recommendations are fully respected” – implying that Netanyahu effectively remains at home.
This condition provoked the ire of Minister Shlomo Karhi, a member of the Likud: “The prosecution is breaking records of arrogance and political interference under legal cover. Trying to transform a medical recommendation into a political tool is not only crossing of a red line – this is further evidence of the judiciary’s attempt to undermine the leadership of the right.”
Netanyahu was released from Hadassa hospital on Thursday where he underwent prostate removal on Sunday. The facility indicated that “his condition is stable and he is recovering satisfactorily from the operation. A period of convalescence is still necessary.”
If the request is granted, the prime minister is expected to resume his testimony on January 20, which coincides with the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump. Netanyahu initially planned to visit Washington, but that likelihood has diminished in recent days.
The trial is currently taking place three times a week in a secure room at the Tel Aviv District Court. The Shin Bet recommended Thursday to keep the hearings in this armored room rather than returning to the Jerusalem court.
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