From Case 4000 to jail possibility: What to know about Netanyahu’s corruption trial | Explained

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a meeting with the US vice president at his office in Jerusalem on October 22, 2025. (Photo by Nathan HOWARD / POOL / AFP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in court on Monday for the first time since requesting a presidential pardon in his ongoing corruption trial. His legal troubles, which have lasted for years, continue to divide Israeli society at a moment of intense regional instability.

What is Netanyahu accused of?

Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. The trial began in 2020 and covers three separate criminal cases. He has pleaded not guilty and consistently denies all allegations.

Case 4000

In the most serious case, prosecutors say Netanyahu provided regulatory benefits worth roughly 1.8 billion shekels, or around 500 million dollars, to Bezeq Telecom Israel. In return, he allegedly sought favourable coverage for himself and his wife Sara on a news site owned by former Bezeq chairman Shaul Elovitch. Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in this case. Elovitch denies any wrongdoing.

Case 1000

This case involves claims that Netanyahu and his wife received gifts worth about 700,000 shekels, or 210,000 dollars, from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and Australian billionaire James Packer. Prosecutors say the gifts included champagne and cigars, and allege that Netanyahu assisted Milchan with business matters. Neither Milchan nor Packer has been charged. Netanyahu faces charges of fraud and breach of trust.

Case 2000

Here, prosecutors allege that Netanyahu discussed a deal with Arnon Mozes, owner of Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper. They say the agreement involved limiting the growth of a rival newspaper in return for more favourable coverage. Netanyahu is charged with fraud and breach of trust in this case as well.

Is a verdict expected soon?

A decision is unlikely in the near future. Unless Netanyahu negotiates a plea deal, the trial may continue for many more months.

Can he receive a pardon?

Netanyahu’s legal team has asked President Isaac Herzog to grant a pardon. They argue that the court schedule interferes with his ability to govern and that a pardon would serve Israel’s national interest. They also say the president has the authority to act on such grounds. Netanyahu has not acknowledged any wrongdoing.