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New revelations in the Netanyahu trial emerge as Hollywood producer Arnand Milchin testifies that the Israeli prime minister demanded lavish gifts in exchange for favors. Speaking by video link from Brighton, United Kingdom, Milchin says Netanyahu and his wife received expensive cigars and crates of champagne, and alleges that in return Netanyahu helped Milchin secure a US visa extension and pushed for tax breaks that would have benefited the producer. Netanyahu appeared in court for Milchin’s testimony.
Milchin, whose credits include Pretty Woman, Gone Girl, and LA Confidential, adds that Netanyahu had complained that some of the cigars were the wrong diameter, while his wife objected to the type of champagne they received. The gifts allegedly included jewelry valued at around $200,000. The trial began in 2020 and is one of three corruption cases that Netanyahu is facing; he and his wife deny any wrongdoing. The testimony comes as Netanyahu’s government revives controversial judicial reforms that had been put on ice in March amid widespread protests.
Protesters demonstrating in Brighton surrounded the hotel where Milchin was speaking. In Israel, this is part of the greater protest movement that is ongoing, with activists and supporters continuing demonstrations. A commentator in the report notes that this is part of a broader effort to ensure that “this will not going to happen,” referencing the protests. Milchin’s disclosures form part of the broader political and legal crisis surrounding Netanyahu, who faces multiple investigations and charges.
The report highlights that critics argue the reforms aim to reduce the power of Israel’s Supreme Court, with opponents claiming the goal is to shield Netanyahu from corruption charges and to destroy the balance between branches of government, potentially leading to a dictatorship. The period has been marked by prolonged political instability in Israel, including five elections in the last four years. The latest allegations regarding Milchin’s testimony are expected to intensify an already polarized national climate. Rupert Stone reports for TRT World.