Summary
The article discusses corruption scandals involving several Israeli political leaders over the past two decades. It highlights cases against Benjamin Netanyahu and other former prime ministers, such as Ehud Olmert and Ariel Sharon. The piece provides details about accusations, investigations, and legal outcomes for these leaders.
Key Facts
- Benjamin Netanyahu is the first sitting Israeli prime minister to go on trial for corruption, facing charges in three cases involving bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.
- Netanyahu has admitted to taking gifts but denies any wrongdoing related to the charges.
- Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert faced allegations of misconduct related to cash received from a businessman and served prison time after being convicted of bribery and breach of trust.
- Ariel Sharon was investigated for bribery but was not charged due to insufficient evidence; however, his son Omri served prison time for related offences.
- Ezer Weizman, a former Israeli president, faced allegations of accepting large cash gifts but was not prosecuted because the statute of limitations had expired.
- Aryeh Deri, a political party founder and former vice prime minister, has been convicted of corruption twice and faced legal restrictions but returned to political roles under Netanyahu's government.
