Guess conservatives are corrupt in Israel as well as here. Funny how they have the support of the right-wing religious people as well. Maybe the lord put it on their hearts? Funny how the only thing they want is that which is good for the country! Ah, conservatives, just trying to conserve what they got.
10
Isn’t interesting that Netanyahu has been in power for so long, and the western media doesn’t make an issue of it. Corrupt, vile individual remains grabbing power, and slaving the Palestinians, destroying their chances to have a nation of their own.
13
Finally, justice may be served for both Israel and the United States by throwing out both Netanyahu and Trump from office. They are birds of a feather. As a US citizen, I have hated how Netanyahu and his party have double-crossed the US in our efforts to establish peace in the Middle East with a two-state solution. Netanyahu's actions made the US look foolish in pursuing peace. I wish that part of the indictment against him could include betrayal of the US and its effort for a two-state solution.
12
I think is because he allowed the Russian to built the Nuclear Busher Plan in Iran but Benjamin never criticized Russia only goes every year for Photo Apps with Vladimir Putin. The Israeli people realize that that he is playing double game not standing up to the Russians and also in Syria and they want a new leader . Long leave Shimon Peres a true Hero for Israel!
2
Interesting that Netanyahu is being investigated for bribery, corruption, money laundering and other illegal activities. The very man Trump has buddied up to and sang the praises of for years now. One can only hope that in a quick manner Trump will face similar charges. Isn't it also interesting that Obama steered clear of Netanyahu during his presidency, just as he is with Trump...
16
Is it possible international Reformation is at hand? I trust the Israeli people more than I trust their politicians. At least, Israel doesn't discriminate against women in their elections like the white males in the US do.
As for Netanyahu, he is like Trump in many ways. Absolute power absolutely corrupts.
5
Bravo Israel Police- US can learn a lot from you. Your integrity is awesome. This is the contrast between Israel and us. We have an extremedy corrupt President and there are so many cases of collusion and bribery. But, the corrupt Republican Party put a blindfold on their eyes and They are in a mission to cover up the acts of the clueless corrupt pathological liar. Shame on David Nunes and his buddies- they do not care for our great nation.
I am still hoping that the Republican efforts will fail. Just may be in future Bibi and Trump will share their life in prison.
4
As always he will use his bluster and arrogance to mount a chutzpah defense.
6
think of this. the Israeli prime minister CAN be charged with a crime while in office, but Trump cant. something wrong with American system of democracy.
6
I'll never forget the revulsion I experienced when Netanyahu addressed a joint session of our Congress.
18
This is the same person who incited Rabin's assassination & then personally DERAILED the Peace Process, thus avenging his brothers death during the courageous Entebbe hostage rescue in 1976.
His brother was killed by Palestinian terrorists & was truly courageous.
Bibi has been the opposite & quite cruel in his Lust for revenge...
7
It's obvious that Trump and Pence ally themselves with corruption at every opportunity! The GOP Congressional leadership joined them in glee. Corruption is synonymous with "Republican".
17
If I understand it correctly ...although he was indicted, only their Attorney General can convict and once convicted he can only be removed if his appeals are denied. Sounds like their political system is as fragile as ours.
6
wise brain--Sounds like Israeli "voters" are as uninformed as ours. Or, maybe they are collaborators.
5
Fool us once, shame on you. Fool us twice shame on you. Israel hasn't had a true honest PM and real peace maker since Rabin.
27
Barak and Olmert were real peace makers.
3
Obama floundered his chance when we supplied arms to insurgents in Syria and when we helped to kill Gaddafi who was planning to invade USA.
Tell me when's Bibi's next speaking engagement in front of the Republican Congress or CPAC?
22
I wonder how much U.S. Foreign aid money went right into Bibi and his wife's private account?
Bibi has always come across as really sleazy and dishonest, it looks like his crimes are catching up to him.
23
Netanyahu and his greedy spouse are notorious for scheming the country and any foreign celebrity seeking favors. He learned from Trump to keep denying any accusation regardless how true it is . As long as one denies, it never happened. I hope it doesn't work in Israel nor should it work in this country.. This time the accusations amassed by police are staggering. Netanyahu seeks wars not peace. He and his entire coalition are cataclismitc and Israel's demise.
23
Israel too important to leave to the Israelis? Iranians and Iraqi Shia militias are massing in Syria ,Hezbollah is in position of 150,000 rockets which can be unleashed at any time, the Palestinian and even the Israeli Arab population is growing increasingly hostile, and people of Israel worry if Netanyahu got some free cigars?
www.isonewsinfo.com
4
I’m not surprised. You can take the boy out of Philly but you can’t take Philly out of the boy.
2
And I figured Babi offered Trump asylum.
4
It's time to look into Schumer and Netanyahu.
Wiil Schumer defend his right wing friend now
Or remain silent? Israel meddle in our election
too.
10
The U.S. is no stranger to interfering in the elections of other countries
By NINA AGRAWAL
DEC 21, 2016 | 2:45 AM
http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-us-intervention-foreign-elections-20...
2
Who knows, maybe Netanyahu’s removal will herald the beginning of peace in the Middle East? His personal corruption has got to have some philosophical influence on his policies and governance. His hardline fear and hate mongerIng is likely good for his supporters’ financial interests and retention of power. There is no money to be made in peace with the Palestinians. The armaments industry would surely be displeased in Israel and throughout the West. Breach of trust follows this man like a shadow. The question is whether Israel could tolerate the national disgrace of imprisoning yet another of its national leaders? Bibi will probably be allowed to resign and keep the cigars and caviar. It would be great if this kind of anti corruption fervor would be contagious to America, too! We can only hope!
12
As long as Palestinians are demanding "Palestine from the River to the Sea" there can't be peace.
1
If Netanyahu goes, good riddance! Yet he has so damaged the prospect for a just peace between the state of Israel and the Palestinian Authority that his departure might not do any good -- unless responsible leaders emerge in his place.
13
Netanyahu been in office too long. He seems very friendly when he met Putin. If you stay in power too long chances are you will do things and don't think the laws apply to you. I'm surprised people in Israel allows him to be in power this long. And twice to boot.
8
It won’t make a difference if Bibi is impeached, his Likud party will stay in power.
Secular Israelis’ that used to run Israel have been over run by the religious parties, due to their ever increasing population, & have kept Bibi in power.
The two State solution is a dead issue,Israel will always remain a Jewish State.
4
Likud got only 25% of the vote.
If the Palestinians ever decide to live in peace, the 2-state solution will come right back to life.
1
Let's see,$300,000 over ten years Or $30,000 per year (no doubt at premium pricing valuation) or is it $300,000 in just one year ten years ago?
If that's the best Bibi could do over ten years he should be ejected for incompetence. The Clintons managed fifty times that amount in five years.
Now that's a successful presidency.
4
How folks are easy to pile on Bibi. He told you all he has done nothing wrong! Can't you take him at his word? Ask Huckabee Sanders...she will definitely confirm this that this is another false claim from those pesky libs!
16
Its no wonder that Bibi, Trump and Pence are bosom buddies. (Maybe litterally) Bibi even has his own way of crying about “fake news.”
4
He took some cigars and Krug rose, big deal, they all do and who cares. Just keep leading the country....
1
It is not only him taking gifts, it is what he has done for the people who gave him the gifts afterwards. It is called bribery and it is illegal.
2
He is leading the country....over the cliff, with your open eyes!!
10
I guess you didn’t read the article. Case 3000, involves a $2 billion deal for the purchase of submarines and missile ships from a German supplier. Critics have described that episode as perhaps the biggest corruption case in Israeli history, touching on deep conflicts of interest and national security. I suppose you are a Trump supporter as well, and doing illegal acts is okay in your book.
16
Israel needs to dump the entire likud party. There will only be more war in the middle east with them in power. Israel, and the world, deserve better.
15
The Middle East is a mess.
The US can't sort out "security checks"!
Murdoch news " News.com.au" reports that:
Some unsubstantiated Russian social media sources are claiming a “massacre” of two mercenary fighting units. One was reportedly wiped out, and the other “cut to pieces” by US firepower, killing up to 200 Russian nationals.
The charges against Netanyahu include playing footsy with wannabe media barons including Packer of Australia.
Putin a Russian is a manipulator.
The Department of State is emasculated, the FBI neutered.
Great job Vlad.
Not a great deal for the US.
I will resubscribe in a couple of months when I feel less nausea.
The daily autopsy of the fetid corpse of American democracy is something I cannot stomach.
The NYT goes where it should go and I fully support.
I need a break.
Just a foreigner.
8
Two of Obama's nemeses, Trump and Netanyahu, are both under investigation and have the shadow of corruption lurking over them. The first, Netanyahu, has now been recommended to be charged. With the Russia (or yet to be named scandal) investigation, Trump could be next.
No wonder they both loathed the no-drama-Obama.
19
"no-drama-Obama"?
Are you for real?
Let's start with Project Cassandra, then we can look at Benghazi, cash for guns/Fast and Furious, the lunatic iran deal with obama sending them billions on umarked cash pallettes...
Netanyahu is the one of the biggest obstacles to the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. The sooner he is gone, the better the off the entire world will be.
23
No matter who is the Israeli prime minister, there won't be peace because the Palestinians want Israel destroyed.
"Bill Clinton: “I Killed Myself to Give the Palestinians a State,” but They Rejected It"
Bibi has no use for peace. Like his buddy, Don, he thrives on the illusion of fear. Without which he would never be considered as a nation’s head. Like Trump he needs to be seen as the only one that can save his country.
These bullies need to go away.
18
So far, right-wing excuses include, a) "Hey, it was the wife," b) "Geez, it was only a LITTLE bribe," and c) "Bill Clnton did worse."
Remarkable.
11
Now I understand why he and Trump get along so well!
15
Cognito, let’s face the facts: these things are done on such a wide-spread basis that it has become commonplace. Ultimately, there may be higher values in life than remaining incognito.
Netanyahu will use the war against Iran in Syria to have Israelis believe he is their saviour, much as George W. Bush rallied his lackluster regime after September 11, 2001.
8
Idea: Open up grocery stores for food stamp recipients, conveniently located, where they can buy (with food stamps) fresh, healthy foods in great variety for no cash, just stamps. Nothing but food, no junk, carefully selected. The best of healthy food. Then no need to create blue boxes.
2
The crucia.l question here is : Where will this issue be finally resolved?
Inside or outside “Israel or outside Israel with the present complex body politic standing for inside and universal Jewish , Zionist and concerned states for outside?,
Tom Friedman’s book of a decade ago - the world is flat reminds us that it is a very small world and that this is all connected just like the Russia investigation. Trump....Kushner.... Netanyahu ...... US support of new settlements..... Israeli walls.....new embassy in Jerusalem ..... Just follow the money. Trump treats governing like he is negotiating a ground lease on fifth avenue.
10
"Trump treats governing like he is negotiating a ground lease on fifth avenue."
He could never do that very well either.
2
He'll step down. Power corrupts. Term limits essential.Its like limiting OxyContin prescription for acute pain. Keep taking and you run risk of addiction. Remember Olmert.
2
I've always believed Olmert was framed. Why haven't we ever heard more about the Israeli-American 'business man' who bribed him? Just about at the time when Olmert was beginning to show (gasp!) some sympathy for the Palestinians - how convenient. Is it possible it was all a plot to get rid of him and open the way for Bibi, who'd been waiting in the wings to retake his rightful place after being dumped years before? I hope there really is such a thing as karma.
3
Talk about a buried lead! It should have been much higher in the story that a key witness is a political rival.
2
Just like the Republicans here, who are complicit with Trump, because it enables them to cling to power, so Netanyahu's cronies cling to him and to power.
6
Americans should be mindful that other nations have much more strict rules for politicians on most everything, including: campaign finance, gifts, insider trading, and buying influence.
A quick review of comments to this article suggest a wide, sometimes rediculous list of 'real readons' for the charges: his wife's popularity, his personal Jewish orthodoxy, etc... All incorrect. Really, America holds their politicians to much lower ethical standards than many western nations.
In Americal, I agree that the Netanyahu charges would not occur in America n politics, nor eould the 20 year prison sentence given in South Korean corruption scandal. American government is the best government money can buy.
4
Given the trend across the world the cases of political corruption and scandals against the rulers rarely reach the logical end, specially true about the current crop of the populist leaders. So, unless Netanyahu really loses political support, there is little chance that he would be forced to resign.
2
Kudos to Israelis who don't want their country to descend into a banana republic. The Netanyahus are a hedonistic bunch, enjoying the trappings of power to the fullest. That they didn't hesitate to pocket thousands of dollars in the course of years from the refund of recycled bottles shows how ready they are to milk small benefits from the state.
“You know I do everything with only one thing in mind — the good of the country,” Netanyahu said. “Not for cigars from a friend, not for media coverage, not for anything." He has admitted wrongdoing. Indeed, "for the good of the state" politicians need to have moral integrity to govern Israel, which already has a lousy image in the international community for its illegal settlement activities.
23
The first settlement on the West Bank after the Six Day War was Kfar Etzion. The land was bought by Jews in 1927. In 1929, Palestinians destroyed the settlement. In the 1930, Jews rebuilt the settlement, but again it was destroyed by Palestinians. It was rebuilt in 1943, but destroyed again in 1948. 157 Jews were murdered. 4 Jews survived. It was rebuilt by the survivors in 1967. Why is Kfar Etzion illegal?
2
Couldn’t have happened to a nicer scumbag
Good riddance to this corrupt greedy moral degenerate white European ethnic sectarian Zionist Jewish supremacist bigot.
What will Jared Kushner do once this master manipulator is gone? Seek solace from his other master Vladimir Putin? What is the son of a convicted felon father like Jared to do? Read the PDB with no FBI security clearance?
11
The best that can be said about Netanyahu, Trump and Putin, is that they are each cut from the same cloth. They really deserve each other.
They really think that they can get away with everything, forever. Their mottos are respectively me first, forever. And thanks for letting me take everything from you.
The three of them should be put in a mosh pit and one will emerge in the end, and be king of the world, forever.
25
Putin did not steal. He was invited by Syrians. How can he be cut from same cloth?
1
yes he is as bad as the Russians at manipulating elections.
2
In following this evolving story, I’ve become convinced that all this hoopla over corruption against Benjamin Netanyahu largely came about due the increasing disapproval Israelis have of his third and current wife, Sara, particularly the charges that Sara sneaked in catered meals at taxpayer expense. It’s reminiscent of the problems suffered by former (later assassinated) Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin. Rabin and his wife, Lea, illegally maintained accounts in the U.S. that the wife apparently used for the kinds of sprees that Sara Netanyahu seems so fond of – caused a lot of gossip as to the source of the funds, and forced Rabin to resign. He later came back only to be assassinated by a Zionist extremist unhappy by Rabin’s attempts to seek accommodation with the Palestinians.
Now, Netanyahu was born to secular Jewish parents and his second wife was a non-Jewish British woman. One can reasonably conclude that Sara, professionally a credentialed psychologist, is equally unobservant. Orthodox Jews regard non-observant non-Orthodox Jews as not EVEN Jews.
I can’t help creating the Post’s cover headline for the day: “Cherchez la Shiksa!”
3
Huh? It's the secular parents and an unobservant wife? How about pay to play and a little quid pro quo? It's just good old fashioned corruption and (some) Israelis have had enough. There's a lot of that going around.
6
One may also conclude that misogny is repugnant, and a poor excuse for Bibi's taking money under the table.
3
Rules and laws seem to be for people that don't agree with yourself. People that don't agree with Bibi are aghast. People that do (agree with BiBi's politics) see no harm in a gift or two. May I suggest the slippery slope between a democracy and an oligarchy is a fine line drawn at a barely noticeable angle.
One of the elements that define a demagogue is the lie that No One but he can get the job done...Erdogan, Putin... And, if you ask them, they'll tell you it's true--No One but me can navigate this crisis.
I don't believe that. I do believe a democracy is worth fighting for. And, believe me, the people of Israel will have to fight tooth and nail to keep this guy from becoming a Putin or Erdogan.
27
Maybe if he's dumped by the Israelis, he can get a job as a "special adviser" to Trump. They're two of a kind, and good buddies anyway. Perhaps corruption, just basic 'doin' bidness' corruption is what Trump is hiding? Follow The Money - be it dollars, rubles, or whatever other dirty cash Trump has laundered for autocrats and oligarchs worldwide.
33
He can he holds a US citizenship, no problem with the security clearance it seems that no one cares about that anymore.
I guess you don't need to be a US citizen either, may be a Russian citizenship?
3
We already have one dual national "special adviser" to Trump and his credentials include member of the board of American Friends of the IDF and large financial contributor to illegal settlements.
3
Jews lived for centuries in Hebron & Gaza. In 1929, Hebron & Gaza were ethnically cleansed of their Jews. In 1948, the West Bank & East Jerusalem were ethnically cleansed of their Jews. Why is it illegal for Jews to rebuild their homes in Hebron, Gaza, the West Bank & East Jerusalem?
1
“I feel a deep obligation to continue to lead Israel in a way that will ensure our future,”. Really? You serious? You're headed full speed towards a cliff...
26
Netanyahu has been in power too long. He is a clever and cynical man who will do anything to stay in power. The world has too many "strong men" trying to erode our democracies in the name of security.
42
Hi Samantha,
Your comment reminds me of someone else in power whom we know all too well. Let's gaze at the Wild Wonder, what a Joy we have found. The head nurse spoke up and said, "Leave him alone!"
1
Hopefully justice will prevail for Netanyahu. I think he should be tried fairly in the courts.
This is important because Trump may have similar charges. If so he should be tried in a court of law and justice should prevail.
If either either Trump or Netanyahu is guilty of crimes they should face the consequences.
4
There is no justice in the US where rich and powerful are concerned. Example...Wall Street banksters 2008 destroyed economy and countless thousands of lives. Got away Scott free.
7
Bye, Bye Bibi.
Maybe he and Trump (once they are out of prison) can sail off to an island together and leave the rest of us alone.
13
Looking through the comments I believe I see a dearth of right wing extremist comments. Could it be that when something bad happens to a Jewish person whom the GOP supports the right wing extremist Trump supporters can't figure out what to do?
5
I don't believe a word of it!
After seeing Bibi falsely accused by Clinton surrogates interfering in Israeli elections in the late 90s and by Obama surrogates more than a decade later spending $349,276 in US tax payer money to interfere with the Israeli's right to a democratic and free state I would bet this comes from the same cabal of antisemitic globalists as the previous 2 phony scandals.
Bibi is the greatest Israeli leader since Menachem Begin, fact.
2
Any reliable sources for your allegations? If not, you’re just making things up. There are lots of Israelis and others who don’t agree to your opinion on the greatest Israeli leaders...
3
He is far from a great leader. He is corrupt and power hungry. He has done little to improve the lives of Israeli citizens.
And what happened to the peace process? Effectively dead.
8
The world isn't run by a cabal - whether "Jewish bankers" or "anti-Semitic globalists." I like to keep an open mind and everyone, including, of course, Bibi has a right to be considered innocent until proven guilty, but there is clear evidence that Bibi accepted bribes and provided favors in return. By the way, Menachem Begin want corrupt and lived simply.
1
This, as with the Mueller investigation here in America, says much that is positive about Israel, as well as about other republican democracies, no matter how far from perfect they are. Can you imagine the police bringing charges such as these against Putin, Xi, Erdogan, Modi, Orban, the Pope, or Ali Khamenei?
Certainly we need to wait to see how charges, a possible trial, and if found guilty, sentencing pan out. And, yes, Dylan's "The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" always resides in the background. Nonetheless, the large majority of the world's population would thank whatever God they do or do not believe in if they could live in a place where such charges can even be brought and publicly debated.
7
Considering that he should be at the Hague facing charges of crimes against humanity, getting Bibi on fraud and bribery is kind of like convicting Al Capone on grounds of tax evasion. Oh, well: whatever gets the job done...
25
When was the last time you said this about Putin or Kim Jung or al Hassad or about the leaders of Hamas or ISSIS.
I DON'T THINK YOU HAVE.
Why is this.
Please tell me,.
2
True
2
stone: Always. Except for al Hassad; who is he?'
1
The Trump and Netanyahu cases may be different in detail, but politically they both now have compelling reasons to foment war as a cynical diversionary tactic to silence critics and deflect justice. Bibi's had more practice as a warmonger and he's clearly a shrewder and tougher nut than feckless Trump, so he's more likely to pull the trigger and start something he can't finish without US help - especially because a likely military adventure in Syria will not only involve Iran but also the Russians. But given their massive egos, their rather obvious character flaws, and their publicly available track records it's all too possible that both of them will choose to blow things up rather than face their own political annihilation.
12
It ain't so simple. Zehava Gal-On of the left-wing Meretz party - former longtime Knesset member here in Israel who opposes Bibi on most issues says that Bibi is unlikely to start a war, that he tends to hesitate (as we Israelis know)and he isn't like Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman, who is a warmonger. Its so easy to compare Trump and Netanyahu and they do have similiarities byt there ar lots of differences. And Trump doesn't need to start a distracting war to stay in power, he just needs to mobilize his base, using dog whistles and Fox news.
2
Indeed , as Col. Wilkerson , former chief of staff to Gen Colin Powell , wrote in NYTimes op-ed , the same powers and lies that led us into the war with Iraq are at it again with respect to Iran
4
Commenters are missing the point. Here's a democracy where even the strongman at the top can be charged, tried, and possibly convicted and imprisoned. Unlike our pseudo democracy where so many argue that the president can't be indicted, making him effectively above the law.
33
Do you call Zimbabwe a democracy? South Africa? Pakistan [PM indicted; tried; removed, and disqualified for life]?? Even the US > cant call it a democracy when it is NOT obe-person-one-vote under the archaic electoral college system.
1
You got it. Trump is invulnerable. Olmert was prime minister of Israel who was convicted of corruption and I believe served jail time. Won't happen with Trump. He's a " made man" protected by Ryan and his ilk.
2
"Bibi" is too smart to believe there is an Invisible Man who wants the Jewish people to inhabit a particular plot of land. He's an opportunist who took what he could grab. The door can't close fast enough on his reign.
26
Israel may not need Bibi but it does need a strongman to fight off Iran and the Shiites. So why not Bibi? There's no one else.
Since Bibi is already in office and is strong, why not let it alone. Bibi is a strongman. So what if he takes a box of Cuban cigars. All strongmen do.
-Estaban Goolacki out
5
Clearly you are not a bright individual.
couldn't AGREE MORE.
Yes, turn a blind eye to corruption so the killing can continue.
3
its laughable almost as if Israel is just finding this out about Netanyahu's greedy and corrupt actions. They know.. even his wife has been charged for being excessive. Look at his sneaky, I got you look in the photo accompanying this article. It's not like someone who stole a cookie; how about someone having stolen the entire cookie jar?
Netanyahu should have been removed from office a long time ago. The only one's with enough chutzpah to call him out was the Israeli Police. They should be believed and he should be gone! Soon!
15
Exactly my thoughts when I looked at this man's expression. Picture tells a thousand words!
5
Netanyahu's sorry story is a classic example of the (crooked) strong man who deflects all criticism, damns those who have the temerity to point out flaws or illegal actions, and, wraps himself in the cloak of 'only having the good of the nation' at heart. This Emperor has no clothes. Politics and alliances are shifting in the middle east in unprecedented ways and sure the Israeli people would benefit from a leader who is less entrenched and ideologically narrow.
9
@Jess, a Millennial lawyer
Yes, Jess. Let's not forget what Netanyahu "did" for his country, including being responsible for the death of thousands of Palestinians just like other Israeli PMs and being so close to annexing the settlements in the West Bank, with the Trump administration only emboldening him. He's not a statesman who deserves not to be lauded and respected, but to be shunned and punished for far more than being corrupt. Everything he did, just like almost every other Israeli politician, just furthered strife for the Arab populace that no one cares about.
16
Which Arab Population does no one care about?? The Yeminis suffering from war and the consequent hunger and disease, The millions of Syrian civilians slaughtered by Assad, Russia and the Iranians or wounded or starved or forced to flee? Or the Palestinians who get attention, media coverage and millions of dollars in aid (some stolen by their corrupt leaders) out of proportion to their numbers?
2
At least 300,000 Palestinian refugees live in Lebanon in what Human Rights Watch calls "appalling social and economic conditions." They're blocked from working in a variety of professions, and the Lebanese government has largely resisted granting them broader property rights.
1
Golda, Palestinians receive a pittance in aid. The U.S. gives to Israel every day what it gives to the Palestinians in a year. Israel receives more than $500 a year for each Israeli from the US while the impoverished Palestinians received $1. per person.
Well that explains the bromance with Bibi and Donnie - birds of a feather! Which one gave the other lessons in corruption, lying, fraud and sleaziness? Always suspected Bibi of playing games - he's just a bit smoother than Donnie who can't stay out of his own way. May they both go down together, unceremoniously! The sooner the better!
24
mazel tov!
2
Beware of the time honored use of war to divert the public attention and rally / unite the populace.
13
Far right wing despot bingo: Witch hunt, media, police are against me, accusing opponents of the same misdeeds, doing it for the country...
14
Opening up this article to comment, not typically done regarding other international leaders, is an invitation for the anti-Israel crowd to reveal their fangs. Unsure if champagne, or speaking to a newspaper publisher, is a reason to try the PM for bribery, unless proven bribery regarding the submarine purchases are brought up alongside. The investigation shows how healthy the judicial system is in democratic Israel, unlike Turkey. Problems in the 2012 war with Gaza isn't reason to avow such hatred of Bibi from folks who don't harbor a shred of this revulsion towards Assad, the Ayatollah, and the dead Baghdadi, to name a few repulsive, repressive Middle Eastern dictators with endless blood on their hands. The NYT is entitled to open up any article to comments, but it's clear the main reason Netanyahu is getting trounced on this page is simply because he leads the Jewish state. Too many closet haters have repackaged their anti-Semitism into anti-Israel mode, showing little empathy for the victims in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan, but siding overwhelmingly with the Palestinians (never a mention of their terrorism) because they stand opposed to any Israel. I get the message.
11
The main reason Netanyahu is getting trounced on this page is simply because of his behaviour while in office, and the behaviour of his wife. While it may be comvenient for you to overlook his pattern of bribery, extortion and self-dealing in order to level baseless and ill-motivated charges of anti-semitism, no one here is taken in by your specious assertion. And I see you liked your own comment, as well.
14
Not just because he leads the state, but instead the callous manner in which he does so. All the while seeking to enrich himself and his associates. The reasoning that he is the least bad guy in the neighborhood, so don't hold him accountable, doesn't fly. Israel as a country needs a leader with steadfast moral compass and should demand better.
10
But she does have a point if similar articles about other leaders are not open for comment. And she is certainly right that the amount of attention and criticism that Israel receives in the American and European media is out of all proportion (and I am a real critic of some Israeli policies and vote and demonstrate accordingly. When is the last time you read about the suffering of Palestinians in a refugee camp - not in Israel but that of the Palestinians living under siege in Syria.
3
Call me paranoid . . .
Netanyahu sounds like a novice at this game—a mini con-artist, compared to ours, but a budding artist nonetheless. Both fight dirty—using and abusing the media to gain their own ends, both are self-serving, both engage in nepotism, both use religion and god as weapons in their arsenal.
Do truly God-fearing individuals believe they are above their God's rules? Neither Trump nor Netanyahu seems afraid of a higher authority. Didn’t they contrive to make Jerusalem the capital of Israel? Who is paying them off for that move and to what end? Just not enough turmoil in the Middle East?
I'm beginning to see similarities in the mind-set of the over-privileged. They become celebrities, receive accolades, develop a sense of importance, gain power. Then they begin to believe the myths about themselves that they have helped to create, they begin to feel entitled to everything that anyone else has, and then entitled to things most others don’t have. They perceive themselves to be above all authority, the law, and The Law (be it moral or ethical). They start to see those around them as minions, then everything the minions achieve for themselves as something they allowed to happen, and finally they see the rewards the minions have earned for themselves are seen as entitlements they allow them.
Is the timing of these new revelations about Netanyahu coincidence, given what's going on all over the world?
11
Jerusalem is the capital of Israel because that's where its government is located.
Small potato's compared to Putin and Trump, and don't overlook the fact that this is evidence of a functioning Democracy, not like what we have here in America.
19
If you do some reading you will find that many people do not consider Israel to be a democracy.
11
For sure the US is not a democracy. It's under control of corporations.
3
The West Bank is not a democracy but all of Israel within the Green Line is a functioning democracy (imperfect like all democracies) with free elections, separation of powers, a free press, civic organizations critical of the government, rule of lawetc. I worry about the future here, but I believe that Israel is more democratic than present-day America.
3
There is no conflict of interest here. These are not the droids you are looking for!
5
This is more an effigy than a comments section. Sad.
1
Trial? I needed some good news this week. Thanks!
5
Another right-winger carousing with bribery and fraud.
Whoa, how could this possibly be? -- right-wingers are so honest and democratic!
10
May he be forced to bunk with a Palestinian. A one-cell solution!
13
Bye bye Bibi.
6
The sleazy fascist will never be charged, he will just slither away and try to steal more Palestinian land in the private sector.
13
What does it say about the U.S. Congress that they gave him 29 standing ovations in 2011? The FBI really needs to reign in AIPAC.
15
Netanyahu is a great speaker.
1
Was Jared Kusher involved in thuggery with Netanyahu? What about Trump's decision to move our embassy to Jerusalem -- any underlying deal there?
8
Ok. I don't even like the guy and I can't believe I am saying this.
First, let's get something clear. Do not even think of comparing Netanyahu to Trump or vice versa. I am not even that pro Israel but I think that is an insult to everyone breathing any way you put it, so don't. They are not in the same league or even in the same reality, period.
Second, Netanyahu may claim that he did it all FOR Israel. Maybe he truly believe that and maybe his supporters can justify his actions as such. This may come down to as simple as the question of the rule of law. Rule of law should apply blindly to everyone.
Finally, even the (blind) Justice System takes into account exigent circumstances and intent. Israel is constantly in a state of war. She is surrounded by hostile states that has openly mused about wiping her of the earth. History has taught us that even the best of leaders did questionable things in the name patriotic duty of defending their country. Is it right? Absolutely not! Does it make sense? Maybe.
3
Nick
On behalf of Israel supporters everywhere, let me say this to you: Please don't post any more comments. You're hurting, not helping. Idiocy like this ("I didn't want the cigars & pink champagne; I had to take them. Exigent circumstances") just makes all of us look bad. Please stop talking.
1
Are we saying that yet another one of Trump's bosom buddies is a thug ? Oh c'mon. This has got to be an international conspiracy to hurt all these "fine" gents - Putin, Duterte, Trump, Netanyahu, ....
4
Don't forget Jacob Zuma.
Certainly we need to wait to see how charges, a possible trial, and if found guilty, sentencing pan out. And, yes, Dylan's "The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" always resides in the background. Nonetheless, the large majority of the world's population would thank whatever God they do or do not believe in if they could live in a place where such charges can even be brought and publicly debated.
This, as with the Mueller investigation here in America, says much that is positive about Israel, as well as about other republican democracies, no matter how far from perfect they are. Can you imagine the police bringing charges such as these against Putin, Xi, Erdogan, Modi, Orban, the Pope, or Ali Khamenei?
4
David Ben Gurion and Golda Meir must be spinning in their graves.
7
Maybe he should call Senator Bob Menendez for legal advice. They are like peas in a pod. Hopefully, Israeli law on bribery is tighter than the loose as a goose new law on bribing public officials imposed by the US Supreme Court.
9
Time for him to step aside and let someone who truly wants peace in the ME instead of this shyster. Why are we still making excuses for this man and his terrorist ways? Time to turn off the spigot of American tax dollars supporting this man and his state.
13
Former Supreme Commander of NATO and U.S. Secretary of State Gen. Alexander Haig described Israel as "the largest US aircraft carrier, which does not require even one US soldier, cannot be sunk, is the most cost-effective and battle-tested, located in a region which is critical to vital US interests. If there would not be an Israel, the US would have to deploy real aircraft carriers, along with tens of thousands of US soldiers, which would cost tens of billions of dollars annually, dragging the US unnecessarily into local, regional and global conflicts."
1
Except it does cost us tens of billions of dollars annually, but , interesting point!
Don't hold your breath for peace in the Middle East anytime soon. And don't blame only Bibi but also corrupt Mahmud Abbas, the terrorist Hamas, Islamist Iran spending billions to support conflict and terror etc etc
1
"I feel a deep obligation to continue exercising power." --Netanyahu
There, I fixed it for you.
4
Heeeheeeheeee. I’m not surprised. I’d feel bad if he weren’t such an arrogant, destructive, dishonest man.
6
Arnon Milchan? Surely no one in the movie business can be accused of crooked character.
7
Bibi, tataleh, sweetheart, if you’re going to stick your hand in the cookie jar, make sure it’s Oreos or chocolate chips.
12
Who knew you could buy a prime minister for so little?
32
Anyone see a counterpoint between Netanyahu and Trump? Even the facial physiognomies.
And of course we get the same crass drivel from Netanyahu: everything he does is for the benefit of Israel.
43
Stalling a trial ? No big deal.
He has been stalling the Palestinian Peace Agreement for decades !
And blaming them as well !!
42
The conflict has provided great wealth for Palestinian leaders. Arafat’s net worth was $1 billion. Abbas’ met worth is $100 million. Hamas’ Khaled Mashaal, head of Hamas’s political wing, net worth $2.6 billion. Ending the conflict means ending the money.
1
Bibi has not been in office for decades. He may share some of the blame for there not being a peace agreement, but you must also blame Yasir Arafat for his refusal at Camp David (when Ehud Barak was PM) and the corrupt, lying Mahmud Abbas for his refusal of an even better offer from then-PM Ehud Olmert. You might also blame the unleashing of Palestinian suicide bombers and other terrorists, which made even Israelis who are sympathetic to Palestinian suffering wonder if ceding more land to the Palestinians will bring the true peace we long for.
1
good
30
Good riddance, though to convict Netanyahu will require an Israeli judicial system immune to political pressure, as it was with Ehud Olmert.
Evangelical Americans. obsessed with "The Rapture" saw Netanyahu as an ally in their Armageddon project but most of us ought to view Netanyahu as the guy who inspired Vladimir Putin's meddling in our elections. Having seen seen Bibi and his Citizen Genet model Ambassador to the U.S. get away with open opposition to Obama, Putin must have said to himself "I can do that, too", as it turned out, more successfully.
27
This is the guy US Republicans invited and listened for advice for our foreign policy. What a shame!
35
This, as with the Mueller investigation, says much that is positive about Israel, the U.S, and other republican democracies, no matter how far from perfect they are. Can you imagine the police bringing charges such as these against Putin, Xi, Erdogan, Modi, Orban, the Pope, or Ali Khamenei?
Certainly we need to wait to see how charges, a possible trial, and if found guilty, sentencing pan out. And, yes, Dylan's "The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" always resides in the background. Nonetheless, the large majority of the world's population would thank whatever God they believe or do not believe in if they could live in a place where such charges can even be brought and publicly debated.
6
“When you guys put somebody in the car and you’re protecting their head, you know, the way you put their hand over?” Trump said, miming the physical motion of an officer shielding a suspect’s head to keep it from bumping against the squad car.
“Like, don’t hit their head, and they just killed somebody — don’t hit their head,” Trump continued. “I said, you can take the hand away, okay?”
10
With Netanyahu out of the picture (hopefully) the US will have one less shadow president dictating to our weak leaders Trump & Pence on foreign policy, foreign aid, military expansion and a host of other dangers we are putting ourself in just to jump to Israel's and the Christian right's commands.
21
These corruption cases pale into insignificance for a man who once replied to the question:
"Why did the IDF bomb a children's hospital in Gaza?"
Netanyahu's answer was "Self defense" ... so whatever punishment he receives if found guilty will never be enough.
42
Peter
If Palestinians were firing rockets & mortars only from hospitals & schools, should the IDF do nothing & just let Israelis die or be injured?
2
m1945
You got any evidence that that was the case?
1
They were firing from crowded civilian areas, close to schools and they stored weapons in the basement of a hospital. This has been proven.
1
Substitute Israeli Police with FBI and Netanyahu with Trump and we’re looking at the NYT front page headline in the near future.
20
Send him to prison where he belongs.
24
Q: What's the difference between Netanyahu and Traitor Trump?
A: None.
25
I think Netanyahu is corrupt and I don't agree with his policies. But these are a few of the differences between him and Trump:
1. Trump avoided military service using the weak excuse of "bone spurs." Bibi risked his life in the elite Sayeret Matkal commando unit and fought in the 6 day and Yom Kippur wars, helping to save Israel from enemies who wanted to destroy the country.
2. Bibi is brilliant and has very good powers of concentration and works long hours. He was accepted to Harvard and M.I.T. on his own merits. Trump has reading difficulties and can barely concentrate. I doubt he would have been accepted by an Ivy League school if his father were not a wealthy man.
3. Bibi's corruption is small potatoes compared to Trump.
Don’t anyone hope that the police go easy on him considering all that he’s done for Israel. We don’t want any obstruction of justice charges brought up on you. Sympathy and empathy are not a virtue anymore. All strictly by the book. God forbid any typos.
2
Netanyahu is a thug. If it weren't for jurisdiction issues he could share a cell with Trump.
41
This was the man who underhandedly was "invited" by the Republicans in Congress to speak to them and the whole world, impugning not only the negotiations for, at the time, an Iran nuclear deal, but more seriously our President, Barack Obama. Speak about Vlady Putin usurping our rights as a sovereign nation! Bibi helped write the handbook.
What will happen now is anyone's guess. But the similarity between our law enforcement agencies, i.e., the FBI, and Israel's is striking. Will Netanyahu beat the system? Will Israelis take his side or law and order's? Somehow I can not help but think that the law will win the day, as I hope it would here in the US. If it does, it will send a message loudly and clearly that its government's standards are above ours, that unlike ours, ethics and morality still reigns.
60
When was the last time a sitting American President was invited to speak at the knesset? The repubs showed who they are beholden to. A despicable bunch including Netanyahu. Birds of a feather.
10
Now we have Netanyahu's "I am not a crook" speech, about as convincing at Nixon's.
4
Will Bibi finally go away?
32
I hope not.
1
I hope so.
13
Breaking News!! The Ritz-Carlton Herzliya closed it's doors to the public and all guests asked to vacate premises.
An unnamed staff source explained "a very prominent guest will be housed for an indefinite time"...
4
You know, I wonder if we wouldn't be better governed if our lords and masters had to run things from the clink.
3
Stop picking on Netanyahu. In today’s new world it’s a prerequisite to be a crook in order to lead a nation.
Let’s exclude Norway and Canada for now.
4
What a yahu! You know, I never thought I'd say this in a million years but I actually agree with something the Trumpster said recently. That neither the Israelis nor Palestinians really want peace. More specifically, their leaders, as the conflict is what helps to keep them in power so they can promote their agendas and rally their people to their cause. I have felt this way for a long time and until their leadership is changed it will continue without end.
3
What a shame it is to think that Bibi should be indicted because he accepted 300k in bribery money over the past 10 years! That is peanuts.
Bibi is a ruthless murderer with blood on his hands. He is responsible for the killing of hundreds of innocent women and children, and destruction of hundreds of homes. To say that this mass murderer is guilty of bribery is to ignore every other major crimes he’s committed.
17
"... a study published by the United Nations showed "that the ratio of civilian to combatant deaths in Gaza was by far the lowest in any asymmetric conflict in the history of warfare."
https://ipfs.io/ipfs/QmXoypizjW3WknFiJnKLwHCnL72vedxjQkDDP1mXWo6uco/wiki...
2
m1945,
By that logic if Hitler had only murdered 1 or 2 Jews rather than millions it would have been okay.
2
There's a vast difference between collateral damage & murder just as there's a difference between a woman who skids on black ice & kills a man & the woman who ran over her husband 3 times with her Mercedes.
If Israel had not gone to war in Gaza, Israelis would continue to be killed & wounded by Palestinian rockets & mortars.
Good for Israel. Time to clean house -- by throwing out Netanyahu and his fellow Likhud thugs.
18
What American senator or rep hasn’t taken lobbyist or donor funds in return for a legislative favor? Surely the most vexing issue is why bribery is perfectly legal here in the USA.
7
Amen.
3
Trump and Netanyahu sharing a cell...One can dream can't one.
24
There is a staff secretary job opening at the White House Bibi could fill.
14
The last thing Israel needed was Netanyahu and his fellow Likhud thugs. They update the Old Testament plagues.
19
Our media and talking heads develops certain myopia and muteness when religion enters folds of political discourse. And for history's amnesiacs too pitfalls of celestial powers having dominion over mortal man's; remember the Crusaders were also directed to do 'Gods Will."
Thus with considerable political powers of Evangelicals ignoring historically flawed even perverse characteristics of Trump and Netanyahu, and still backing them to save Israel for coming "rapture", it may well be cause of destruction for Americans and Israeli democracy.
When religion plays greater role in government's leaderships policy(s) than US Constitution intended, that is radicalism. And of itself covets greater dangers to posterity within our borders than those without seeking USA destruction.
4
cigars? what about premeditated anhilation of palestinians: genocide?
25
In 2016, 60,000 people were killed in Syria, 24,000 people were killed in Iraq and 120 people were killed in the Israel/Palestine conflict.
2
One year and no sources m1945? Surely you can't expect to be taken seriously.
3
I am recalling the summer where Israel killed 2,100 Palestinians including women and children.
4
Pink champagne? You mean rose`?
1
So looking forward to the op ed piece from NY Times columnist Bret Stephens telling me that I am an anti-Semite for declaring joyously that there is now a chance that Netanyahu will be found to be the vainglorious racist murderous corrupt monster that he has always obviously been to those of us with a brain, elected and re-, re-, repeatedly re-elected by the people of Israel. Let’s hear from you Brett.
20
As long as Netan-yahoo kisses-up to the Israeli orthodox theocrats, nothing will happen to him.
6
Netanyahu and Trump.
Can the world possibly become worse with these two in power?
God help us all!
3
I hope he goes to jail
5
Power corrupts
3
Natanyahu has weakened sympathy for Israel, especially in his hawkish policies against Palestine. And it really riled a lot of us Americans up when he interfered in our politics and spoke to Congress.
10
Netanyahu had been invited by Congress.
2
In case you think only the Republicans invited him Charles Schumer who is the leader of the Democrats also did and he praised Netanyahu after the speech he gave.
3
This, as with the Mueller investigation, says much that is positive about Israel, the U.S, and other republican democracies, no matter how far from perfect they are. Can you imagine the police bringing charges such as these against Putin, Xi, Erdogan, Modi, Orban, the Pope, or Ali Khamenei?
Certainly we need to wait to see how charges, a possible trial, and if found guilty, sentencing pan out. And, yes, Dylan's "The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" always resides in the background. Nonetheless, the large majority of the world's population would thank whatever God they believe or do not believe in if they could live in a place where such charges can even be brought and publicly debated.
3
The tactics being employed by Netanyahu are mirrored by the Trump administration in its attempt to undermine the Mueller investigation, the FBI and the DOJ. These two jokers (BeBe and Donald) are joined at he hip!
5
No wonder he and DJT get along so well. They can trade tips about how to discredit investigations.
9
The world is rife with rulers who are thugs, liars, con men, authoritarians, fools, hypocrites, narcissists, meglomaniacs, and tyrants. Turkey, North Korea, Poland, Iran, Somalia, Syria, Sudan, Russia, and more. Add to that list now: Israel and the United States. Are there any other planets out there one can migrate to?
4
One would hope that even the right wing nuts in israel would get rid of bibi. Perhaps in this country too.
6
He's a mere shadow of his hero brother.
2
I view Mr. Netanyahu's reign as in large part responsible for Israel's moral decline over the last decade into an apartheid state. He is a racist fanatic and a ghoul. That he is also not only corrupt, but in such a petty and stupid manner, seems appropriate. Putin steals billions from Russia. Trump, before he's done, will have enriched himself by many millions if not billions . And Netanyahu sells out for $300k. I hope he rots in jail. The world will be a far better place without him.
10
If Israel were an apartheid state, I, for example, would not be allowed to work for a Jewish newspaper or live in a Jewish neighbourhood or own a home. The real apartheid is in Lebanon, where there is a law that bans Palestinians from working in over 50 professions. Can you imagine if the Knesset passed a law banning Arabs from working even in one profession? The law of Israel does not distinguish between a Jew and an Arab.
Khaled Abu Toameh (journalist, Arab citizen of Israel)
5
m1945,
Your name and credentials are irrelevant. You are a deeply biased troll as evinced by your despicable and illogical replies to other comments. For shame.
4
Stockholm syndrome.
1
Meanwhile, Abu Mazen is in the 14th year of his four year term having never held an election. Abu Mazen enriches himself, just like his predecessor Arafat who died a billionaire in Paris, while his people fester and starve. Abu Mazen has scuttled every peace deal, incites violence, and pays terrrorists and their families stipends with international aid including from the USA. But I suppose pointing out that the furtive leader od the Palestinians is a holocuast-denying, corrupt, peace scotching despot bent on promulgating terrorist violence doesn't fit the Palestinians As Noble Victims Narrative. Nope, clearly nothing to see or opine or editorialize about there!
8
This explains Israel's sudden entry into the Syrian conflict. Netanyahu was trying to forestall his indictment at the expense of Israel's military forces. It sound like something Trump might contemplate.
11
The infamous gangster/murderer Al Capone was finally brought to justice after being convicted on lesser charges of federal income tax evasion. He was never convicted for his real crimes of multiple-murders. Like Capone, Bibi Netanyahu might be charged with lesser crimes of bribery & fraud, but likely not wholesale destruction & death by his approval of assaults in Gaza in the name of self-defense; murderous actions by Netanyahu & Israel constitute flagrant violations of international law. See Norman Finklestein's excellent new book, "Gaza, An Inquest into its Martyrdom".
58
I suppose Israel should have just let the Hamas terrorists enter their territory through the tunnels and slaughter their citizens.
1
The name of self-defense is laughable. If you had rockets raining down on you every day, would you not want the United States to fight back?
1
I suggest that you look at photos of the destruction in Gaza. No one in those buildings could have survived. 250,000 Palestinians were left homeless, but alive because they had been warned that their homes would be bombed & they should leave. Around 2,000 died. Men of fighting age were overrepresented among the dead. Because bombs make no distinction between male & female, I suspect that the over representation was because men were more likely than women to have engaged in gun fights with the Israelis.
“The Times analysis, looking at 1,431 names, shows that the population most likely to be militants, men ages 20 to 29, is also the most overrepresented in the death toll”
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/06/world/middleeast/civilian-or-not-new-f...
2
Let’s create a new Mt. Rushmore, but this one with the heads of Trump, Netanyahu, Berlusconi and Putin. We can have it made in Siberia, where each of these Heads of State belongs.
116
You forgot Duterte and Erdogan. What fun they could all have together!
1
Good idea...we could put up a set used telephone poles in front of them all and paint them grey, kind of get the right perspective from which to see them.
2
Bad design, Scott! Given Mr.Trump's ego, his head will take up all the available space. So, there can be no any other head there.
1
The US DOD will be upset with this whole matter, he's one of their pawns for the money grab of the US Defense budget ripoff.
7
They can't indict Netanyahu: he's too busy in Syria starting a war with Iran. And he's "this close" to using Israeli law to legalize all the illegal settlements, with Trump's approval. Word leaked out from Netanyahu's private meeting with Likud members, and now the spin is taking place. But bottom line: these are Netanyahu's "two aces" to give him maximum cover from indictment.
12
Jews lived for centuries in Hebron & Gaza. In 1929, Hebron & Gaza were ethnically cleansed of their Jews. In 1948, the West Bank & East Jerusalem were ethnically cleansed of their Jews. Why is it illegal for Jews to rebuild their homes in Hebron, Gaza, the West Bank & East Jerusalem?
1
Bibi and Trump - must be those Judeo-Christian values at work that are so constantly and nauseatingly proclaimed by those two moralizing countries, Israel and US.
One's a corrupt, racist Apartheid theocracy, and the other a corrupt, racist corporate kleptocracy.
Both are warmongers, major arms dealers, and chief instigators of conflicts in the Middle East.
I'm glad the next superpower, China, has the world's greatest irreligious population and the Chinese government is officially atheist.
Count me in.
17
agree about trump and bibi--but stalin and mao were atheists..probably hitler too.. just saying- no simple formulas...
If you’re German, please consider that tiny remote possibility that your country had just a lil’ bit to do with the matter.
And, by all means, let’s all celebrate the PR of China. No problems with human rights or corruption there. None at all.
4
Oh yes, please. Let's have more moralizing about arms-dealing, war mongering and instigating conflict, from the Germans.
1
Well, why wait...he can witness his next war safely from the big house...
9
.... while drinking pink champagne!
2
Good ! No, check that; GREAT !!!!
If one looked in Webster's Dictionary under the heading: "Greed", one would find a picture of Mr. Netanyahu.
It is WAY past time to throw this bum out.
15
No doubt BiBi is a world class rascal, but the greed picture would have to be of Trump.
1
"Netanyahu Should Be Charged With Bribery and Fraud, Israeli Police"
Now we know why he wants to start a war!
24
So....both the USA and Israel are run by bent, corrupt leaders.
28
Until Trump was elected I would have said that Netanyahu was the world's worst democratically-elected leader (well, parliamentarily-elected). In addition to his corruption, he has contributed enormously to exacerbating problems in the Middle East and to making Israel into a near-apartheid state. I realize he hasn't yet been indicted, but I hope is and is convicted. Since he loves Trump so much maybe the two of them could spend some quality time together at Guantanamo.
39
So it's ok to take gifts because they were from people he already agreed with? That seems to be the amoral code he's preaching.
7
Another one of Trump's boy crushes shows his true self. Will this break Donnie's heart, or will he seek solace in Moscow or Manila?
21
It might make Trump wonder, could I be next? One can wish.
4
Once the Israeli judicial system has their way with the totally loathsome Bibi, can they please send him to The Hague to stand trial for crimes against humanity for his long running genocide of the Palestinians?
60
Self-defense is not genocide.
The Palestinian Authority's paying people to murder Jews, the more Jews they murder, the more money they get, that's genocide.
Don’t get too excited.
Unless the government falls apart and he isn’t re-elected, he only has to go if he gets convicted and then loses an appeal of the conviction.
This could take years.
11
Fake news? Right Trump?
5
“ ... and made strenuous efforts to discredit those investigating him ... “
Now WHERE have I heard that before, and recently, too? No, no, don’t tell me. Give me a minute ...
6
Bibi will follow Trump's script---calling the competence of Israeli police into the question---based on the evidence so far---if Bibi is not indicted, Israel in a worse place than I thought.
6
Right about now Israel should be getting real nervous that Jared Kushner has no top secret clearance.
14
Lock him up is right ! About time that thief goes to jail.
13
Bibi is simply an intelligent version of Trump. Cold, ruthless, dishonest and someone who appeals to the worse devils of our nature. Netanyahu is very bad for Israel, unless you believe that Israel is better off by turning the West Bank into an Aparthied territory. Is anyone really suprised about the allegations that have been brewing for a long time, just like Trumpgate. It is time to determine whether democracy and the rule of law are still alive in two countries drifting toward autocracy.
17
and israel potentially keeping millions of people under subjugation will only end in mass bloodshed all around- learn from history dammit!!
1
If Israel were to end its occupation of the West Bank, Palestinians would fire rockets & mortars from the West Bank just as Palestinians fired rockets & mortars from Gaza after Israel pulled out from Gaza.
If the Israelis ended the occupation, returned to their legal borders, and stopped driving Palestinians out of East Jerusaem the Palestinians would have no reason to attack them. They learned a long time ago that they are totally overmatched militarily. Since the United States is clearly not a fair broker in the dispute, it should be referred to te World Court, where both sides could advance their legal arguments and a decision would be based on the law and the facts.
1
This man is a revolting warmonger and the sooner he's in jail the better off everyone will be.
17
Palestinians firing rockets & mortars killing or wounding 2,000 Israelis are war mongers. Destroying the rockets before they can kill any more people is called self-defense, not war mongering.
Netanyahu needs to go to the Wailing Wall and wail.
8
Wow! Nice anti-semitism! Good jon editing the comments NY Times.
Of course Netanyahu will use national security as excuse for his corruption and will not step down. He will present himself as the only savior of Israel, and will blame his indictment on enemies of the Israeli state. Benjamin Netanyahu has been a very good student of the Republican party playbook here in the USA. Sadly, he may lead Israel down the same path of democracy ruination that the US is currently experiencing.
9
This is one of president Trump's GREAT GUYS; GREAT LEADER; ignorant brown shirt wannabe who took it upon himself to bypass president Obama and address both Houses as if he were president of the United States. Small wonder Trump idolizes leaders like Nutandyahoo. They are of the same ilk.
22
Couldn't happen to a nicer guy. The whole family sounds like a bunch of grifters. Sounds familiar?
18
Kennedys?
2
What is amazing is that Obama is still doing everything right and he is not even in office. How does Trump always end up with the cameo with corrupt people? If Trump only had Obama's mojo!!!
10
Didnt Obama sell Bibi more weapons than any other president?
1
Just ask your buddy Donald how to bribe your way out of it. He's got all the answers.
8
Could not have happened to a nicer guy. Watch how Netanyahu undermines and avoids prosecution—it will be instructive for when Mueller comes out with his recommendations.
3
Are we surprised? well known the Beeb has been a crook (and warhawk) for years....couldn't happen to a nicer guy....and of course a FOD (Friend of Donald).....the Beeb of course should call it quits..then he and the wife (think she was also being investigated/ perhaps already indicted?)....could retire to Mar e Lago...just in time to join the Don after he is impeached....something tells me Melania won't be there, though....too bad...she seems like the only decent one among them
5
I wonder if Robert Mueller can learn anything about the speed, thoroughness and effectiveness demonstrated by the Isrealis in bringing charges against a Head of State.
Bravo to all those Israeli investigators involved! It cannot have been an easy task.
1
Nethanyahu indeed, as Lawler notes, is a close mimic of Trump. Corrupt. Intent on creating a monolithic country with himself as the center. Israelis are well read on corruption on the scale that both Nethanyahu and Trump practice. Both deserve each other, and it is highly appropriate that both be escorted off stage by the appropriate police force.
Nethanyahu and Trump have intentionally separated their countries from the rest of the world, a means of diminishing the impact of honest reporting and moral authority.
6
I know the American gambling billionaire Sheldon Adelson has given very large amounts of money to both Trump and Netanyahu. Adelson also publishes the largest circulation newspaper in Israel. I suspect his name will emerge in connection with today's events if it hasn't already.
11
Can someone please explain to me what is the evidence of bribery?
Is it "the police accused Mr. Netanyahu of accepting nearly $300,000 in gifts over 10 years," "his holding on to $100,000 in gifts that were state property and having the state pay for private work on his home"? Or anything else?
I'm asking not because I am for or against Netanyahu, just curious how serious the charges are and how signficant is the amount of bribe. Thank you!
2
The police interviewed Arnon Milchan, the Israeli-American Hollywood producer and James Packer, Australian businessman who gave the bribes. Also Bibi's Bureau Chief, Ari Harrow. They testified that Bibi regularly requested, and they provided, supplies of expensive cigars, champagne and jewelery. Packer provided Bibi's high-living son, Yair with free hotel rooms and plane trips. Milchan received help with extending his American visa and with financial interests in Israel. The bribe paid each year ($30,000) is about equivalent to the average annual Israeli salary. There is also a larger bribery scandal involving millions of dollars received by close associates of Bibi in connection with purchases of submarines from a German company. It isn't known yet whether Bibi knew about this. You can read more in English on this at the Times of Israel and YNET sites,
I have despised Netanyahu ever since he made his speech to a joint session of Congress, over White House objections, condemning the Iran nuclear deal. The fact that the US Congress was used as a prop in what was essentially a campaign event for the Israeli television audience disgusted me.
I hope Netanyahu, the crook, goes to jail for a long, long time.
14
Lock him up!
And for so many reasons too. That he took bribes, apparently on a very large and systemic level, is one reason. But he should also be charged with numerous war crimes perpetrated against the Palestinian people and the many victims of his hawkish policies within Israel proper.
8
How many other countries saved hundreds of thousands of enemy civilian lives by warning enemy civilians to evacuate before bombing?
How many other countries' doctors treated injured enemy civilians?
Have no fear Benjamin, Donald will send you a copy of the playbook.
DENY, deny deny
Fake news folks, fake news
Discredit law enforcement
Discredit the AG
Discredit the judges.
Rinse.
Repeat.
9
A ploy to manipulate the American Left, who have been badly misused.
Instead of this olive branch, plant olive groves.
1
So, I'm sure there will be a war started up so everyone will be distracted.
Lock him up.
7
Anything that hurts & undermines the Likudniks is good for Israel, America and the world.
7
A crook, just like his Republican friends.
5
This man has been an embarrassment to the State of Israel for so long. It is about time his grip on Israeli politics is being challenged. He has done more damage to the cause of peace than the Palestinians ever could. Rabble rousing, fear mongering, hateful speeches and supporting illegal settlements - anything that would keep his power and position intact. Despicable human being.
9
Every time Israel offers to end the occupation, the Palestinians say “No!”
Even Prince Bandar bin Sultan of Saudi Arabia (certainly not a Zionist) said that Arafat’s refusal to accept the January 2001 offer was a crime. Thousands of people would die because of Arafat’s decision & not one of those deaths could be justified.
As Clinton later wrote in his memoir:
It was historic: an Israeli government had said that to get peace, there would be a Palestinian state in roughly 97 percent of the West Bank, counting the [land] swap, and all of Gaza, where Israel also had settlements. The ball was in Arafat’s court.
But Arafat would not, or could not, bring an end to the conflict. “I still didn’t believe Arafat would make such a colossal mistake,” Clinton wrote. “The deal was so good I couldn’t believe anyone would be foolish enough to let it go.” But the moment slipped away. “Arafat never said no; he just couldn’t bring himself to say yes.”
1
He was previously convicted of fraud! How was he ever seen as free from that taint and returned to office? What an incredibly immoral man! Please make sure he faces justice this time!
3
No, he wasn't "previously convicted of fraud." Read the article.
This is not a surprise
3
Now now, maybe the first question in order is did Putin have anything to do with this?
3
The unfortunate trend that we are seeing too often is --the Process be damned! Everyone simply tarred with any allegation of corruption or some alleged malfeasance is already hung on the nearest lampost --be it a Trump, a Modi or a Begin. People forget that the process is as important as the end result that you are clamoring for. President Clinton was tarred and he could never recover from it, we all suffered. Now the President Trump is in the same "dog house" and wow, every Tom, Dick and Harry has the final verdict --courtesy of the fertile Media and this NYT. Let Netanyahu, and also the President Trump, see the Process proceed to a conclusion. We have a process to follow--to find the facts and see what they are and where do they lead us to. Simply because we see some smoke there, we can't begin hollering with certainty about a Fire!
2
Crooks recognize a kindred spirit when they see one, which is why Trump palled up with Netanyahu. Israel would be well rid of its grifter, just like we would be of ours.
4
This sounds like the case brought against US senator Menendez. It was a hung jury. Do people really think this man would sell out for pink champagne and cigars or make a deal with the left wing press that hates him? And, the main witness against him, is his political rival. This reeks of politics. Now if he took money, that would be different.
6
The word on the street in Washington is that Trump is wondering if he can pardon Bibi.
7
Birds of a feather...No wonder he and Trump are such buddies.
4
Mueller's investigation is finished here, now, to conclude the next.
1
It couldn't have happened to a nicer guy. I never liked Netanyahu's arrogance and meanness, but when he came here and insulted President Obama that was the last straw for me. There is probably no chance to settle the Israeli-Palestinian problem anyway, but as long as "Bibi" is around there would be no possibility ever.
10
In 1947, the scholars at Al-Azhar University (The highest authority in Sunni Islam.) declared holy war to return Palestine to Islamic rule. Therefore, as long as most Palestinians are devout Muslims (89% of Palestinian Muslims want sharia law.) and as long as the Jewish State controls even one square inch of land, peace is impossible.
Bibi to stay in office might threaten nuclear war.
4
Trump and Netanyahu: brothers from a different mother. And as if we don't have enough to trouble us already, Jared Kushner, our envoy to the Middle East and whose family has a history with Netanyahu, is no doubt passing classified info to the crook (and to God knows who else), despite the fact that he -- Jared -- has no security clearance. Splendid!
7
We can understand the strong affinity between Netanyahu and Trump. To both, political office is not regarded purely as a chance to help others and to help one's own country. No reason not to make some extra income on the side. Both are authoritarian and cater to the extreme right wing of their people. And both will not admit wrongdoing but will lash out at their accusers, saying whatever they feel makes them look better, whether truthful or not . Both are dangerous for the sustainability of peace. And both have many die-hard supporters in spite of everything immoral and blatantly deceitful that they do.
6
So . . . why haven't they arrested him already?
Remove him from office and arrest him like Korea did to Park.
Israel must be as upright as S Korea, right?
7
"$300,000 in gifts over 10 years"
Israel deserve better than this.
4
Way too little...
That's only 30,000 a year even if your numbers are correct.
That is a very insignificant amount of money so do not use it as a reason to denounce him as if he is a thief.
I cannot comment on these charges, but I do believe Bibi acts for the sake of every Israeli citizen.
I wish him and his family the best.
2
You wish him and his family "the best". That would be receiving millions instead of measly 300 000. No?
1
Are they twins - Donald J Trump and Natanyahu?
Both attack the free press, both are corrupt though in different ways. Both are under investigation by their own government. Both seem to place themselves above the interest of the country they profess to serve. Etc.
8
I don't dig this headline. It should start with "Israeli Police Say," not end with it.
2
Pride goeth before the fall
2
I knew that when the relationship between Obama and Netanyahu were 'strained' where the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu is some sort of love fest, that Netanyahu was a shady character.
Obama was a good judge of character, and Dutarte didn't like Obama one bit but seems to think Trump is great.
Heck Putin has praise for Trump.
People who cozy up to Donald Trump are usually unsavory, and in the end the truth will out.
People who support Trump should really, really think about that. Your support says you are either stupid, or corrupt. Please choose wisely next time, and stop answering dog whistles. It's unbecoming, and dangerous.
15
It doesn’t matter who leads Israel, nothing will change because the so called “palestinians” never wanted a country unless Israel disappears.
5
Your disdain and dislike for Palestinians drips off your words.
4
If the Palestinians had wanted an independent country, they would have declared independence in 1948. Instead, the West Bank Palestinians asked for union with Jordan.
Where would you put Mahmoud Abbas and all his Fatah cronies? Come to think of it, Netanyahu was elected. Abbas is now in the 12rh year of a 4-year term.
4
Even the New York supporters of Israel have learned the importance of a good “whataboutism.”
4
Could you possibly explain to me what the morality of The Palestinians or the election of Netanyahu has to do has to do with these charges. Maybe we should let Netanyahu rule by fiat simply because you you like him. Don’t worry, the Israelis will find someone just as obnoxious and rude to take over after Netanyahu departs.
5
You ask the wrong question.
Can you explain why you hate Netanyahu and not Abbas.
A democracy's greatest protector is a strong judicial system. Israel's religion is a religion of laws, starting with the Ten Commandments.
Our democracy is in greater peril than Israel's. Time will tell whether justice prevails here as well.
6
Israel has as much of a class inequality problem as we do. And both country s Parties are responsible for creating it.
2
Netanyahu and Trump. Kindred spirits.
And, in both cases, millions of citizens don't care about
theft, lying, corruption, (and for Trump paying prostitutes and
sexual assault). They just love their guy!
19
He's our own Silvio Berlusconi. Over and over again, Bibi is charged and sneaks away free -- and continued to be elected. He is a pestilence that stalks in darkness and a plague that destroys in mid-day.
50
It is time for Bobi to sic the army on someone. Anyone see any Iranians ?
8
It's time for Netanyahu to take stock of his actions, seriously consider what is best for his country's future, and heap all of the blame for these accusations onto the Globalist Deep State. Their reach has no limits. In fact, they probably sent Bibi most of the gifts! It was a ten-year-long entrapment scheme! And what's the deal with these Israeli Police? It sounds like a secret liberal cabal that is hell-bent on taking Bibi down at any cost. The Likud Party should start investigating THEM!
M.I.G.A.!
8
Could not think that it could happen to a more outstanding citizen. Watch the Frontline piece done on this guy, he has blood on his hands.
Funny how he disliked Obama so much, and openly supported Trump. Now you're both going to jail. I wish you'd share a cell in Guantanamo.
49
Funny how a bribe that massively enriches one man can wind up being "for the good of the country". What if he had been offered a mere $250,000; would it have been "not good for the country" in that case?
11
What massive bribe.
Three hundred thousand can't even buy you a one bedroom apartment in Manhattan.
The long arc towards justice may take it's time, but then the noose may close fast enough to save the country from moral turpitude, a fresh wind of change and renewal. Why is it that, once comfortable and cozy in government, one tends to abuse it's power?
10
Trump and Netanyahu. Two peas in a pod. I wonder if US officials will in anyway act on behalf of the country the way the Israeli officials did. Not holding my breath.
27
Perhaps malignant demagogues like Netanyahu and Trump will be going the way of the sexual predators like Weinstein. Let's hope so.
56
I eagerly look forward to the disappearance of Netanyahu from Israelii politics. He was and is an enemy to any peaceful settlement of the Palestinian/Israeli problems in the middle east. He has caused enough trouble - time for him to go!
61
Sadly, absolutely all of his potential replacements with a ghost of a chance at the job have politics that are much, much worse.
If you can believe it...
3
Extended timeshares are available at Guantanamo.
28
Lock him up. This is one of the worst leaders who has made the middle east a powder deg. His addressing our congress was a disgrace. He deserves 20 years in the clink. Good riddance.
96
a powder deg indeed
2
that is a hilarious post. He was invited by congress to address congress. The Middle East is falling apart due to numerous dictators and you blame the one democratically elected leader in the region.
4
The Middle East is a powder keg - because of : Iran and its Islamist revolution in 1979 and support of war and terrorism all over the Middle East, the oppression of Egyptian, Iraqi, Saudi Arabian and Palestinian people by corrupt despotic rulers, the Sunni-Shiite wars currently raging, George W. Bush's ill-advised war in Iraq, and I could go on. Netanyahu is no peacemaker but he sure didn't cause most of the troubles in the Middle East!
Could it be; Netanyahu and Trump gone with in a year. Yes God please.
18
Little wonder Netanyahu and Trump are as thick as thieves.
15
Bibi we knew you loved our foreign aid, we just didn't know why......you used it to try and live like Trump.
4
Israel's last three prime ministers have been charged with corruption and war crimes. It is an indication of the moral decay that is damaging a country that once thought of itself as a beacon of light unto the Nations.
33
It's a sign of moral decay in the leaders -- the fact that the larger society is going after them is sign of health.
2
Not "the larger society " , but the Police.
The larger society is what put him in the presidency!
1
Netanyahu got only 25% of the vote.
"It's good to be king." There are perqs. Some are legal and some are not. The notion that somehow Bibi was above all the trappings of the height of power carries no more weight than any other random assertion. If he's a crook, he should lose his job.
6
Time for a change at the top in Israel (and hopefully the U.S. as well).
You must not put your own interests above the law or your people.
Arrogance of politicians is never ending...
11
For those commenters who apparently believe that it is only right-wing politicians who end up being charged with bribe and fraud and/or that Netanyahu basically deserves to be convicted because he is an ally of Donald Trump, please don't forget that the last Israeli Prime Minister to be convicted of bribery was Ehud Olmert, the leader of the centrist/liberal Kadima party who backed the creation of a Palestinian state and the relinquishment of parts of the West Bank.
If the evidence justifies Netanyahu's conviction or being forced from office so be it. But let's not find him guilty in the court of public opinion based on his association with Donald Trump or his political views.
8
You missed the point of the comments.
1
Jay Orchard:
How bizarre and paranoid. Who suggested the distaste for their behavior is driven by the right-left mindset? This isn't football. It is governance, the fate of the millions of people they are charged with serving and bettering. How does corruption serve and better the people?
They don't meet that test.
2
Or... let’s conclude that Israel reeks of corrupt politics, and always has.
so I wonder when Trump will come out in support of Netanyahu. Between Putin and Netanyahu, they are the only two foreign country leaders he speaks well of. or is it Trump only supports his fellow man when they abuse women sexually or physically. A common denominator shared!!
7
Bribery?
Fraud?
Corruption?
No wonder Netanyahu and Trump are such good buddies.
I guess if Israel kicks Netanyahu out of office, he can always get a job as Trump's new Chief of Staff.
69
I think the same group that wants President Trump out wants Prime Minister Netanyahu out too. We love Both men here in America. And we believe both men are gifts from God to each country.
2
I bet if a Muslim said that their leader was a gift from Allah to their country you would call them a religious fanatic.
5
Who’s we? Those two are a disgrace of historic proportions.
2
So you didn't read the article, did you?
4
If Bebe needs a job, Trump is looking for a chief of staff. Bebe has all the qualifications.
2
Trump's "kind of guy!"
5
All together now: "Lock him up. Lock him up..."
18
Here's another guy Trump can defend as a "...a great man, I know him." The list is endless.....
7
I look at Mr. Netanyahu and see a man who will soon enter the record books as Israel’s longest-serving Prime Minister;
whose country remains surrounded by enemies on all sides who after 70 years are still sworn to do his people in, a country which experienced yet another
serious attack by Iran just last week;
who presides over a democratic country known to be full of highly contentious people who constantly disagree among themselves and with their co-religionists elsewhere;
a nation that now ranks as a world leader in science, technology and medicine that in 2017 was ranked by a study conducted under the auspices of the UN Secretary General as the 11th happiest country in the world, coming in ahead of the U.S. and Britain;
and as a man who is currently telling Palestinians in the clearest terms possible that the game is nearly over; and that by obstinately refusing to come to the
peace table soon with an offer to Israel of permanent recognition as a Jewish State -- including meaningful land trades and security provisions -- means
permanently accepting the unenviable conditions they have placed themselves in through their own choices.
You’d think that a newspaper that boasts of printing “All the news that’s fit to print” would at least occasionally present some grudging recognition of Mr. Netanyahu's successes and readiness for peace with the Palestinians in its editorial amd news columns.
But you’d be wrong.
The Times looks at Mr. Netanyahu and sees an ogre.
7
Well, to be fair, the Israeli police seem to see it that way too now
3
Baron Acton said in 1887 - "Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men". Bibi has had too much absolute power for too long in Eretz Yisroel. Corruption, alas, erupted in his family. Long past time for him to relinquish the reins. And absolute power is corrupting his fraudulent pal, Donald Trump, too. Too bad peas in a pod. Too bad.
4
But soon even the compulsive Israel-haters in this NYT blog will have to face up to one of the fundamental differences between Israel and the Palestinians. In Israel, crooked politicians are tried and if found guilty go to jail. Under Fatah and Hamas anyone who reports, protests against or investigates a crooked politician (if promoters of terror can be described as such) goes to jail ... if they're lucky, that is.
3
No surprise here, it's no wonder Bibi and Trump got along so well, they're both CROOKS.
I think it's high time Bibi and his wife, both end up going to jail for mooching money and trinkets from anywhere they could grab it, a couple of really greedy Grifters.
6
We can make a direct correlation between the Netanyahu regime in Israel, the Trump regime here in the US, Erdogan in Turkey, Duterte in the Philipines and certainly Putin in Russia - this is the rise of "strong man" fascism. It is high time for all good people in any democracy to vote these people, sentiments and devolving societal systems out of office and out of our lives.
10
Yes, which is why I voted for Hillary. Figured a normal crooked politician would be better in the long run than an authoritarian one.
2
Hillary supported Netanyahu.
Schemer supports Netanyahu.
It isn't only Trump who supports him.
Yes, although I am a Jew I believe Bebe is a criminal and should go to Jail. He has damaged Israel grievously and is a fascist pig.
17
Maybe Muller needs the Israeli police to come here and help him with trump. They seem to know WHO should be indicted for bribery and fraud. And here, we also have obstruction of justice, and YEARS of money laundering.
7
His defense is: "I do everything for my country". So he is saying him taking bribes is good of the country. Sounds like Trump to me. I cannot do anything wrong, I am the king!
10
I hope the courts in Israel don't buckle, and that American courts will follow suit. A failure would be a giant step on the road to authoritarianism.
14
What a scandal! A political leader is credibly accused of being a criminal the evidence is mounting. People surrounding the suspect are at risk, the authorities are demonstrating that the person is guilty but have not yet arrested and charged the person or complicit people.
Tell me again why is Mrs. Clinton still... selling lies.
2
Huh?
4
Let's hope these charges against Bibi happen fast. Perhaps that might head off a Trump-Bibi plan to wage "bigly" war on Iran.
11
You can be sure whoever becomes PM in Israel -- even an Obama clone -- Iran will still continue to vow the annihilation of Israel. Or are you kidding yourself?
1
That's "to wage war on Iran, bigly." Grammar is important.
Sounds like he's taking a page from the Trump playbook. Before anything even comes out, he's already banging the "Investigate the investigators" drum.
14
Too bad there isn't a Global Prison for Tyrannical Crooks. Trump and Bibi would make perfect cell mates.
21
I agree. However it would already be filled with Venezuelans, North Koreans, a certain shirtless Russian, a Cuban crowd, a group of Middle Eastern potentates and the Obama/Clinton administration.
Just as in the U.S., the question remains: Will the country survive the destruction brought about by the actions of the corrupt bombastic racist chief executive? I'm dubious.
8
Now we know where Donald Trump got the idea of drawing attention away from his own possible malfeasance by sliming the leadership of our Justice Dept and the FBI. If it works for your BFF Bibi, it can work for you, right Mr. "President"?
5
I find it hard to forget how he insulted Mr. Obama
37
Dear Mariposa (and anyone else). Bibi heavily influenced George W. Bush to invade Iraq lying while saying that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction. Bush listened, along with a conniving former Iraqi and CIA agent, and ask Congress for the right to enter. Guess who objected knowing there were no weapons of mass destruction? Senator Barak Obama...who was marked from that day forward by Bibi which partly explains why today in Israel, my country, the great president Obama is so vilified by millions...who don't know why!
7
While the media has gone off the wall about an alleged love affair between Trump and Putin, the former's real love is Netanyahu and no other world leader. Actions by Trump have proven that. Now we know why, they are both crooks.
24
This man should be charged with war crimes.
21
Edward J
Please explain.
Israel isn't the only country saddled with an aging leader who yielded to temptation. In a related article SA president Jacob Zuma is also being pressured to step aside by the ANC because SA desperately needs new leadership.
The epidemic of corruption among the world's leaders is spreading with no end in sight.
10
"yielded to temptation"??!!
You make it sound like they took an extra piece of cake for dessert
1
Bribery and fraud? That’s all? Well, pal, in today’s world that stuff will probably get him canonized.
7
It's time for Bibi to go if there is any hope for progress in the middle east. Israel is better than that and needs new leadership. He's been an obstacle for two long.
We don't need these fraudulent leaders out for themselves to stand in the way and we can get a two-fer if Trump is charged with crimes as the result of Mueller's investigations.
I may not believe in much but I believe in karma. Take your 'lovely' wife with you Bibi and enjoy a change of life with a side of justice.
Now, Trump has to be next then the world might stand a chance tor moving forward on settling things down for the common good with fairness and reason at its core.
15
Conflating Mr Netanyahu and no peace is quite a stretch. Why? Because Israel needs a partner in peace which it has not had for a long, long time (i.e., ever). Fortunately most Israelis understand that despite the limitations of its politicians they all have the best interests of all it's citizens. Sitting in the US you risk nothing suggesting what Israel should do to achieve something you would give up nothing to achieve. And please don't lecture me on how much $ the US gives Israel. We receive far more in return.
3
Let's hope that justice is done.
6
Right wing leaders like Trump and Bibi are "peas in a pod". They could shoot someone on 5th Avenue or Ben Yehuda Street and not lose their supporters.
11
Good. Netanyahu is a good guy as long as you do his bidding. Every day that passes makes Obama look better and better.
22
Except portrait day.
Really, you have to wonder about the Israeli government which has found that in the 1990s, March 2000, and again now that Bibi has been charged with bribery, fraud, etc. and have done nothing to replace him. I am sure his deals extend into even the United States:"I will stand with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israel and work with my colleagues in Congress to stop this deal and to ensure that Israel has the means to defend itself against Iran and its terrorist surrogates,” Sen. Tom Cotton said in a statement concerning the Iran Deal. Birds of a feather flock together and you have to wonder why he, Trump etc. get away with everything.
10
In case you weren't listening Hillary pretty much says the same.
Netanyahu sounds like an Illinois politician. He should be convicted and jailed like they were (or are.) Corruption should never be tolerated, anywhere in the world.
18
But only if he has a fair trial.
Too bad. Couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. His wife is also a lovely person. Upstanding, fine human beings. Not!
25
Don't forget their charmingly personable son, too.
5
Netanyahu, like Trump, has been mired in corruption his entire career. Is the Israeli AG a Netanyahui toadie, like Trump's Jeff Sessions, or an honest prosecutor like Robert Mueller? That remains to be seen. Meantime, Netanyahu, like Trump, has turned Israeli backwards, catering to the fundamentalist ultra-Orthodox who are Israel's equivalent of evangelicals: backward, misogynist and extremist in their religious and political bias.
52
It seems that Sheldon Adelson has stopped backing Netanyahu ... will he back off the Don too?
21
Let us hope so.
1
I doubt Sheldon Adelson is long for this earth. Have you seen how he looks recently?
1
Netanyahu has governed Israel as though only he knows what is best for the Israelis. Fortunately, the Israeli people have a real sense of what is proper and what is fair. Unlike their neighbors, they actually hold their leaders accountable. Netanyahu is arrogant. Like Trump, he looks with disdain at anyone who doesn't genuflect to his will. Hopefully, Trump will also learn that trying to undermine the will of the people is a losing proposition.
48
Maybe Trump will pardon Netanyahu. After all, what are friends for?
31
Netanyahu is a thug, deploying an openly racist campaign of apartheid in a nation that hardly qualifies as free by any stretch of the imagination. He has done everything in his power to squelch Israel’s free press and to bring his critics in the media into the orbit of his right-wing government. Rather than resign like his predecessor, Ehud Olmert, he impugns the legitimacy of his own law enforcement agencies. Is it any wonder this man saw a friend in Donald Trump?
78
He just got brought up on charges. That doesn't happen in a non-free state. What was apartheid, helping wounded Syrians or stopping war tunnels from being built? perhaps it was his waiting for hamas and the palestinian authority to destroy themselves?
3
This is such a great thing for Isreal and its future. Hopefully, he'll be removed and soon, the US, Philippines and Russia will follow suit.
14
Sounds a lot like "Make Israel Great Again." Hubris and the inevitable scandals that come with it everywhere and everywhen.
17
Put Trump in the same cell!!!!!!!
22
Netayahoo should be in prison in the Hague now, awaiting trial for ordering his military to commit war crimes. And for other violations of international law.
Yet we give Israel billions of dollars each year, we could be spending on America first.
46
If we didn't give the money to Israel, the Republican would give the money to the rich in the form of tax breaks.
Major Gen George Keegan, Jr., former head of USAF Intelligence, said, "Between 1974 and 1990, Israel received $18.3 billion in US military grants. During the same period Israel provided the US with $50 - 80 billion in intelligence, research and development, and Soviet weapons systems captured and transferred to the US."
Is this when Bebe finds his American passport, like last time?
14
Yet another Levite.
1
No wonder the trumpster and Netanyahu like each other.....they are both crooks. Both also heavily into denial. Should be interesting.....
10
War with Iran beginning in...
10
Because of their all consuming lust for power, right wing types like Trump and Netanyahu are especially liable to be corrupt and to use their power to hold on to their ill-got gains. History is riddled with these high-flying criminals.
14
Dear Bibi,
If all else fails, the GOP is hiring. The White House has many openings that appear not to need security clearances. Maybe your friend Donald Trump can put in a good word. You can DM him.
https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/796387796982308864?lang=en
11
Benjamin Netanyahu is the best Prime Minister Israel has ever had.
The charges will dissolve like butter in the hot Middle Eastern sun.
Bibi will survive and reign for another four years.
He is a straight shooting hard working honest man and he deserves our support and respect.
No charges have been brought.
Bibi keep on going!
We love you!
4
Wow, if he's the best, what a sorry collection of losers that would make the others!
2
“Simple”, eh?
1
Is your brain on spin cycle yet?
2
Jeez, his predecessor was similarly ousted. Is Israel turning into the world's newest banana republic? Conservativism sure is a bastion of high ethics and impeccable honesty -- so different than liberals, who routinely do such monstrous things as improve their nations and help others and protect the environment.
20
In a banana republic dictators don't get ousted.
2
Add this pea to the Trump pod.
7
Maybe Trump can loan Bibi, Sarah Huckabee Sander, as his new spokesperson or loan out Hope Hicks for any kind of favors she can go to bet Bibi out of hot water, Hope has quite a bag of tricks.....almost as many as Felix the Cat.
8
Just replace 'Netanyahu' with 'Trump' and it would read the same way...
5
A preview of coming events in the US. Maybe Sheldon adelson will dial back the slots to pay legal fees in Israel.
8
Couldn't happen to a nicer guy. What we need to hope is that his loss is Israel's gain.
8
"Netanyahu Should Be Charged With Bribery and Fraud, Israeli Police Say."
Well, it's about time.
P.S.: The instant this interminable, intolerable lout is removed from office, the Palestinian/Israeli peace talks should be commenced anew. Their vitality, sincerity, and hopefulness will be greater than ever.
18
"You know I do everything with only one thing in mind- the good of the country." What a load of generic politician malarky. Netanyahu is motivated by consolidating and increasing his power. He is crafty and a savvy politician, but selfless and altruistic are adjectives that do not come to mind when thinking about Bibi. A truly selfless leader would have begun putting contingencies in place for a successor once this investigation began heating up. A leader that cared about the good of the country would also considering stepping down and allow his people to have leadership not bogged down by his own personal legal battles.
18
What this man should be charged with is crimes against humanity. A young Palestinian woman is going to be put in prison for slapping and/or punching an Israeli soldier. Is this what happens in a democracy? She was described by a member of the Israeli parliament as a terrorist!
29
Sounds like an assault felony to me.
Try punching (without provocation) an American soldier in uniform and see what happens to you!
3
You punch a US soldier on the street in America and you expect not to have repercussions? Seriously?
3
Violence is wrong except in self-defense. The Palestinian woman was not defending herself when she slapped and/or punched the Israeli soldier. We should not condone violence.
Sure the police in democracies recommend the indictment of prime ministers every day of the week. The Israelis love to point the finger at the undoubted corruption that exists in other ME regimes but they are supposed to hold themselves to higher standard. How this guy can stay in office is a mystery but if he does it tells you quite a lot about the Israeli "Democracy."
20
I want President Donald Trump to fly to Israel and address the Knesset (like Bibi addressed Congress here in 2015) and tell them the coming indictments for fraud and bribery are “fake news.”
33
When a married couple in Israel goes to prison for their crimes, do they get to share a cell? In a just world Bibi will be forced to share a cell with Sara
10
with a divider down the center
Bibi and Trump. Joined at the hip.
28
Be careful what to wish for; the Israeli right wing is filled with zealots, religious nut jobs, and thugs who could make Mr. N look like Ghandi. The probability that his successor will be worse is far higher than a tossup.
19
Was thinking the exact same thing. You get Bennett or someone like that in, and we'll look back fondly at the days of Bibi
2
The Israeli Right is,fortunately split into two factions.
The Left is currently unified, split over where to draw the line between Israel and, some argue disarmed, Palestinian state - almost all hold retention of Jerusalem to the ancient limits of the city walls Off the Table.
Most Israelis occupy spots just off the center that “Bibi”, like the late leftist founders the murdered Shimon Perez the last leftist, hold and held by a cult of personality.
The split in the rad Right is political vs religious.
The political right is children, grand, great-grand, of the small rad Right of ‘47-8 - some still want the modern nation’s borders to then-united Israel and Judah of @1000 BCE.
The Religious dress more “modestly”, than radical religious Muslims, and want a return to Old Days that never were.
They are divided into the bunch who lives “in fear” of their deity,and demand draft exemption so they can study, and innumerable clans of Chassidim who act like Judaism began in 17th century CE Europe, and dress like, and follow rules laid down by their ancestors’ city’s chief rabbi, draw family trees relating their head rabbi to the first, and fight the “fearful” over building a New Theocracy.
I expect the PM will be an experienced member of the Knesset, working sans cult, unless there’s an Obama or Trump still off-stage, to seize the mantle of history.
But the nation is likely to discover, after 70 years, the Washingtons and Jeffersons are dead.
1
I am sure I am not alone in my elation over the prospect of Bibi facing the music. It could not happen to a nicer thug.
39
Commentary and Social Media show there are countless people who recognize good in humanity and share a world view of things that will allow us to survive as a species - be it politics, the environment, government...
At some point these forces need to rise up and challenge, and put down those who are corrupt and hell-bent on a winner-take-all view of the world.
10
No wonder, Netanyahu is such good friends with trump, birds of a feather....
20
Bibi has long been an imperious thug, surrounding himself with ultra-rich sycophants who have gone so far as to buy entire newspapers which they've retooled into shameless propaganda rags for Netanyahu and Likud. Well, the billionaire kingmakers won't be able save him from this. Netanyahu's downfall will be the best thing that has happened for Israel, the Palestinians and the entire Middle East for a long, long time. It's time for Bibi to find out that nobody is above the law in Israel, not even self-appointed absolute monarchs with fabulously wealthy friends.
53
PeteH:From your lips to Gods ear.
Netanyahu can divert the public's attention by starting a short war within Syria. How fortuitous to have shot down an Iranian reconnaissance drone on Saturday and then retaliate by sending fighter jets to bomb Damascus neighborhoods (no reports on civilian casualties have been published), and bomb what Israel said is the site that launched the drone, as well as other targets. What other countries would retaliate so ferociously over reconnaissance drone. Israel is itching for war with Iran. The public would be very reluctant to oust a prime minister in the midst of a war. Let's hope the U.S. does not get sucked into another war to benefit Israel.
15
well-put. [and terribly so.]
yes: let's hope the situation in the ME won't get further out of hand.
1
Syria attacked Israel in 1948, 1967 & 1973 & refuses to sign a peace treaty with Israel so Israel has good reason to retaliate.
Trump is a crook.
Menendez is a crook.
Why not Netanyahu?
8
A second prime minister going to jail. Mueller should be inspired. Their heads can fall. We should all be elated that corruption can be stopped. In our Democracy it should have been easier but let us not lose hope.
31
Now we see why Donald Trump wants to move the American embassy to Jerusalem, rather than like most democratic nations in Tel Aviv. Corrupt politicians stick together.
The corrupt prime minister really detested President Barrack Obama and tried to help Mitt Romney win in 2012. He sees a friend in Trump and his silent Vice President Mike Pence. I had hoped that Trump would be the next politician to leave office.
40
The capital is the seat of government. Israel's parliament & prime minister are in Jerusalem so Jerusalem is Israel's capital.
Donald Trump and Netanyahu are close friends. During the last presidential campaign, Trump boasted he "could shoot somebody on 5th avenue and wouldn't lose any voters. "
Netanyahu had a similar feeling after winning so many elections in Israel. It appears Bibi is running out of luck.
33
The recommendations by the Israeli Police to charge Netanyahu is strong evidence of the independence of the Israeli police and that is to be applauded.
Will our own FBI show similar strength and independence in the face of Trump's assault on them? I hope so.
75
Weak men make the best Strongmen, so insecure about themselves that they need to lord their power over others.
15
The people of Israel and the U.S. are in a race to the bottom to see which country can elect the most corrupt "leaders". They being the two countries that tout themselves as providing the world with moral leadership.
29
"bribery, fraud and breach of trust." This is the foreign leader who campaigned against the Democratic nominee for President of the United States and who addressed Congress at the invitation of the Republican leadership. Lie down with dogs and get up with fleas.
62
lets stop comparing these two with dogs or even pigs they are simply human scum
2
That is why he is desperate to start a war with Iran and Syria because he knows he is going down.
44
I’m shocked at the many comments tarring Netanyahu and Trump with the same brush of totally self-serving corruption and disregard for the rule of law. To me, the two leaders are not even remotely comparable—one is a serious politician who has devoted his adult life to public service, and the other is a real estate tycoon who lacks veritable interest in policy or governing.
The findings of the Israeli police are grave indeed. Perhaps Netanyahu has come to the great reckoning, like so many other politicians in history, that a job that gives you enormous power while necessitating the continued pursuit of that power can make you lose your moral compass along the way—regardless of how initially well-intentioned the desire to lead.
This turn of events shares many parallels with the downfall of Syngman Rhee, South Korean’s first President. Rhee’s country, too, was surrounded at all sides by geopolitical powers that sought to destroy his nation. Towards the end of his long presidency, Rhee, blinded by the yearning for his great vision for South Korea, stumbled by blurring lines that must not be blurred in any democracy. Let us not trivialize Netanyahu’s alleged wrongdoings, but let us neither forget what he has done for his country.
37
To me, Bibi's brother served his country in honor, dedication and total commitment, giving up his remarkable life to save others. I will honor him in my mind and heart as long as I live.
Bibi has only served himself. Read history.
3
Will the comment section editor who picked this please reveal him/herself? Unbelievable.
1
Follow his history. Netanyahu has always put himself above the law, claiming to be the messiah and therefore the law does not apply to him. He has unabashedly exploited his brothers' death at Entebbe and followed his father's commitment to fascism (with a small "f" as he became a fascist long before Hitler forever linked the term to genocide). He has portrayed his rivals as Nazis, not unlike Trump's embrace of them. Sadly, they have much in common.
2
We have more on trump and the GOP does nothing.
16
The tone of this article baffles me. It goes on paying backhanded compliments to the murderer and war-criminal, Netanyahu.
I wonder how many teeth had to be pulled from the writers' heads before they admitted that the police did make recommendation to charge the obvious criminal.
11
Irrespective of political leanings, too many politicians are self-serving, righteous, arrogant and pompous narcissists. The world order is presently in a state of declining moral decline that is being led and fed by the very individuals who should be leading us to higher sets of standards.
At least we shall have a military parade to satisfy Trump’s small mind and even smaller hands.
7
Kudos to the Israeli police charging a serving prime minister. Our boys in the FBI and special counsels office could learn a thing or two!
19
It is time to charge Trump with sedition for trying to use a foreign country, Russia, to overthrow the US government.
12
Maybe if/when Netanyahu is out, peace with the Palestinians will have a chance.
17
That would still require the Palestinians to want peace, and not the destruction of Israel.
2
sure, because they were making such progress before Netanyahu became PM
2
There was no peace before Netanyahu.
This is obviously an attempt by Netanyahu's opposition to bring him down and replace him with someone less hostile to the Palestinians. Thank you
2
Netanyahu's corruption brought him down -- not the opposition party. Last I heard, Israel was a Democratic country and so a proper investigation was done and this is the result, a recommendation that he should be charged for his crimes, which are serious.
2
Southern Boy:
Yeah, obviously, a "hoax" just like the Russia investigation.
I wonder if Bibi and Donnie will get communicating cells when they both end up in jail.
4
Excellent! This arrogant right-wing leader of a religious state should get what he's got coming to him. Then, the Republicans will invite him to speak to Congress and Trump will offer him amnesty as a "political prisoner".
9
Looks like he's got something in common with our fearless leader.
10
Well, we'll, well. Perhaps there is some leveling of the haughty righteous ideologues.
6
Oh well! It is about time! Now, this is a real opportunity to see if Israel is a true democracy, as it often claims, or their justice system is as corrupt as their Prime Minister! I hope they don't disappoint the observers!
11
Israel was ranked 29 out of 167 on The Economist's Democracy Index.
That's better than Belgium, Greece, Cyprus & at least a dozen other European countries.
1
Olmert, the former PM of Israel started a war to cover up his illegal actions. He bombed and killed thousands of civilians in Lebanon.
Netanyahu has the option to keep bombing Syria and call himself protector of Israel. The guy is just a war criminal worse than Assad.
10
Umm, Obama & Hillary bombed Syria too. Do you think they did it to cover up their illegal actions as well?
2
Well, I suppose if he can't be arrested for genocide and mass murder, then graft is the next best thing. After all, Al Capone was finally jailed for tax evasion.
17
So you can indict a sitting prime minister in Israel?
Very interesting... hope our Justice department is taking notes
Netenyahu is like Trump, if Trump had a brain.
Who, if either, will ago down for their crimes?
Is there no shame left in this world?
7
Trump wouldn't step down for a mere indictment, never mind a referral of charges. Bibi will wait for conviction.
11
Netanyahu very close personal friend of Trump, by photos and statements, at least. Both are uncontrollable and not well grounded. Among other situations, Netanyahu decided to emulate Trump and forcibly expel African immigrants in Israel, some for decades, because of instability in their countries, and like American immigrants, they have contributed to Israeli society. Israel, a country founded by Holocaust survivors, isn't sending an acceptable message by Netanyahu's unilateral actions. Israelis are standing up and giving refuge to the immigrants and standing against Netanyahu. Americans should emulate their actions. Hopefully, Mueller will follow the Israeli police in regards to Netanyahu's buddy and won't allow the president to Trump the law and legal responsibilities. Maybe the world can start to recover.
42
Netanyahu is not a friend of the United States. His only interest is to exploit the right-wing neo-fascists in the Republican party for his own purposes. In the process he actively undermines the United States as a progressive democracy.
186
And let's not forget how much money we give them -- 38 billion over 10 years for their security and Trump comes in destroys all their security with his vicious and mis-guided and even ignorant understanding of the region. Nor does Mr. Trump care who gets hurt or destroyed by his ignorance. Mr. Netanyahu should be charged -- he too is not above the law -- in Democracies we are all the same -- but tell that to these two -- they think they're Kings presiding over the "little" people.
5
The very reason why the U.S should reduce the $3B+ in foreign aid it sends to Israel annually. It also doesn't help that Trump appointed his bankruptcy lawyer to be the ambassador to Israel and the Republicans rubber-stamped their approval for a guy who's an alt-right version of an extremist.
It is good to see that there is at least one country in the world where corruption by the leader is not tolerated. We should follow Israel's example here.
34
Birds of a feather, Netanyahu and Trump. Men more interested in their own power than their nations' laws.
Hope Bibi is forced out and, ironically, America, with it's 200 years of history should follow the lead set by the relatively young Israeli democracy and expel the corrupt Trump as well.
13
Trump and Netanyahu have much in common.
They both feed off of peoples' lowest instincts.
They both have a "my way or the highway' attitude.
They both try to discredit any separate powers.
They both try to be global bullies.
They both pretend to be victims of conspiracies.
They both, of course, are the ones to fear. Don't let them distract you. They're villains.
66
This is a perfect example of democracy at work, and Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East. Could you imagine this happening in "Palestine", or Lebanon, or Iran? Shame on Netanyahu if he's guilty, but kudos to Israel and its justice system for working so well.
10
I'm having trouble imagining it happening here. I doubt Bibi can fire his accusers.
1
"Should be charged"...a trigger word for both sides of the political divide.
I can see why he and Trump get along. For both they're probably guilty of what most people would not consider criminal is the true spirit of the word, rather technical that only lawyers live for in fees. Bureaucratic indiscretions most people have little sympathy for afters years of having to endure the likes of the IRS and DMV.
2
Netanyahu has been good for Israel in many ways, although he certainly is not perfect. And, had there been a real peace partner on the other side of the table (or sides, given that Hamas and FATAH differ in goals, tactics and policies), perhaps Labor or a more liberal party or a combination of said would have been in power leading to different leadership and policies. But, Hamas still pines for the destruction not only of Israel, but of Jews everywhere (see charter) and FATAH is busy trying to get the international community to push Israel into giving it everything it wants (which may even be the land on which Israel exists). Netanyahu maneuvered best in that situation.
When looking at the crimes for which he should be charged, please also remember the neighborhood in which he is working. Compare his alleged crimes to those of the leadership of the Palestinians, from Arafat on. How did these leaders become wealthy? Look at the customs in other countries for "greasing" the way to a deal. Do I agree with them? No. Do I operate in that part of the world? No. This also could be an example of leader of a country with a western value system in an area that laughs at such values.
At this point, we should worry as much if not more about such behavior or worse becoming part of our political culture. It could, you know, since we have elected officials who believe strongly that operating a business while elected and making money from it is a good thing.
4
Gifts of cigars and pink champagne? Trivial. This took 10 police visits to talk to Netanyahu. Absurdly long investigation for cigars and champagne. And as for the exchange of a discussion about publicity and newspapers, nothing was done after the discussion. Do not the Israeli police have anything better to do? Is Israel so free of crime that the police need to investigate such relatively minor activities for more than a year? The charges are clearly witch-hunt politics and deserve to be dismissed.
5
If only these charges existed alone and in a vacuum. He has barely escaped being charged for other crimes .His wife also faces charges as do some of his closest friends and relatives and for a variety of corrupt behaviors.
2
Ah, so another of Jared and Donnie's long-time close friends is found out to be a criminal...and the leader of a country, no less. Should any of us be surprised? Kudos to the Israeli police department, for wrapping up their investigation with charges for multiple crimes within a year's time. Perhaps soon our own 'Cases' against Trump will be concluded too, with more severe punishment given the charges of obstruction of justice and cooperation with a foreign enemy to affect our election - hopefully even treason charges.
10
This is disheartening. The UK, one of the few nations to adopt democracy organically, led to Brexit. The US, long a guarantor of Western values, is backtracking. Now Israel, a democracy surrounded by authoritarian states, is mired in corruption.
7
“He does not have a public or moral mandate to determine such fateful matters for the state of Israel when there is the fear, and I have to say it is real and not without basis, that he will make decisions based on his personal interest in political survival and not based on the national interest.”
Geez, they could be talking about Trump. Just substitute “Israel” with “USA”.
6
There's hope for peace in the Middle East after all.
Now to pass this along to our neck of the wood.
5
From what has been reported he still hasn't been charged with anything and the Israeli justice system upholds the principle of innocence until proven guilty.
It seemed like Senator Menedez was going down with all of the allegations of corruption and bribery against him, but he came out unscathed, so it may pay to withhold judgement until the judges actually find him guilty.
3
Let’s take our cues from Israel . Clearly their democracy is a true democracy where the leader of the country isn’t above the law .
What kind of democracy is the United States ? We will find out after Mueller’s investigation.
If Trump is guilty of crimes he should be charged . Trump should not be above the law , but I’m afraid that our so called democracy isn’t as strong as we hoped .
53
Well the Israeli people elected someone accused of fraud in 2000. Not sure how that's so different than the US and our questionable POTUS (who's son, btw, is BFF with Netanyahu)?
"Again, in March 2000, once Mr. Netanyahu was out of office, the police recommended that he be charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust in a case involving his holding on to $100,000 in gifts that were state property and having the state pay for private work on his home. Months later, the attorney general also ordered that case closed."
5
Sorry, please read the article more clearly. Two times before this Bibi was caught with his hand in the cookie jaw but skated. In this instance he has not yet been charged, and may yet not be.
55
Funny that the use of the word "guilty" is so loosely used by many people since the start of the 2016 Presidential election, even though opinions' of a person's guilt in legal terms and reality are often not the same.
Our democratic Republic is as strong as the acceptance and adherence to the rule of law within the biding processes, procedures and structure of our legal system.
Attempts to circumvent the rule of law and /or the legal structure through judgement in the court of public opinion does not strengthen the civility of a democracy, but attacks the weakest threads to fracture and widen gaps of the democracy within its own structure.
So, if the Muller investigation turns up nothing yet presents their finding in a "Comey" style press conference, it appears in like minded opinions like yours, democracy would have failed, because the end result would not equate to your opinion.
1
As unsavoury a figure as Mr. Netanyahu has proven himself to be, his self-inflicted diminution bodes poorly for Israel, the United States and the world. Nobody benefits from an Israeli State in disarray, not even the Palestinians. The sad irony is that Israeli citizens, like their American counterparts, have visited this misfortune, not only upon themselves but also upon other people who will share the cost of it.
59
Exactly right. When a leader goes down it devastates the country as much as rescues it. The fall of Nixon left awful scars for a long time.
An Israeli state in disarray... maybe it's about time for that.
It's 'array' seems pretty putrid. And the source of much that is sorest in the world today.
1
Geez, I forget, in today's world, are leaders' bribery and fraud indictments disqualifications or qualifications?
140
Add abuse of women and you've got the most enhanced resume for our own administration!
Counting the minutes until Trump tweets about how Netanyahu is the real "victim", "misunderstood" or a "good guy"...
267
No he won't. The con could care less what happens in the rest of the world.
1
He seems to care a lot about fellow strongmen Putin and Duterte though, kynola...they're who he wants to be when he grows up and finally hits the mental age of 5.
Maybe Netanyahu can learn from his favorite President how to stay in office no matter what. Not that I would compare the depth to which our dear President has sunk to Netanyahu. Nevertheless, corruption is always worth a look. We are not alone in this country growing and tolerating criminal behavior at the highest levels.
12
Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy . . .
85
What I don't understand is that on two previous occasions, the police recommended that charges be laid - and he was STILL re-elected? Is there such a dearth of good candidates in Israel, or is there something more sinister happening. Good riddance to bad rubbish - and may the US be rid of trump and his family forever - in orange suits - for many, many years.
Please, Mr. Mueller, hurry up with the indictments. Your Country needs you; the World needs you.
65
Bibi is the Israeli Trump, and both need to be brought down. if they are not, we will have a triumvirate of Putin, Netanyahu, and Trump, with their jokers Assad, Erdogan, and Duterte, bringing the entire world down.
251
The other "jokers" King Salman plus his worthless son along with el-Sisi.
2
You forgot Kim of North Korea, the tyrant who taught Trump to demand applause and showed him how to clap.
Wow. Trump really has the coolest and best criminals for friends. Really the best. Nobody can touch Vlad, but then we are looking at a legend there. Trump appears to have a leg up on Netanyahu in the favorable media coverage department. No back-room dealings needed there, although I imagine that there are many, even in the Oval Office, but certainly not needed. From the look of this case, I imagine Trump would not fare well under Israeli scrutiny. But here in America, it is the wild west.
36
There is a Latvian expression - "Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are."
6
An article about Netanayu and the Trump connection and your back to Putin. Figures, that's how obsession, in this case one created by a drum beating MSM and McCarthyism, work. Having scapegoats handy for one's own messes (Libya, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Egypt, Honduras) has always worked wonders for the intrenched elites and if nothing else acts as a cover and excuse for more weapons sales and guilt avoidance.
Its just like 1914 all over again! WW I was ALL Germany's fault you know, while the allies were blameless democrats fighting for human decency and the British French mandates of Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Libya, Iraq, Iran etc etc. Marvelous to see how far we have 'evolved'! It's so great to be 'perfect' like Hillary. Damn it WAS her turn! DNC oligarchs (Soros) are much better than the RNC one's (Koch bros) no matter if, in the larger questions of war and liberty, privacy reduction is something they can always find grounds to 'co operate' on ('Patriot Act').
Hurray! We can now, thanks to DNC neo McCarthyism, increase weapon sales to NATO by $ 1 trllion just as our effort to bring peace always seem to work 'so well'. Libya is indeed so much better off now with a halved average life expectancy thanks to Hillary's involvement. Finally (and this is what REALLY matters) their oil belongs to us (UK and France). Then I remember Dick Cheney's favorite joke, 'What is OUR oil doing in THEIR sand!!'
It's great to see 'democracy' and 'bipartisanship' in action!!!
3
Vlad: The mention of Putin was not the focus is certainly relevant to the point being made about who Trump admires among other leaders. The reference in this case was about criminal or corrupt behavior, not to election interference, so had nothing to do with what you call an obsession (what most call grave concern about Trump and his administrations behavior and policies). I doubt I can win any points with you by suggesting that Clinton would have been a much better and more competent president than Trump, so I won't try. But if you are going to argue that our support for what appeared to be attempts to establish more democratic governments in the Middle East was misplaced simply because the countrie's did not achieve those goals, then I would call that a flawed argument. We also do not need their oil; we are now perhaps the largest exporter of fossil fuels.
The charges against Prime Minister Netanyahu have been a long-time coming. Let's hope our justice system, currently under siege, can function as well. In fact, it's interesting that criminal charges can be brought against the prime minister while there's much debate here whether Special Counsel, Robert Mueller, can actually indict President Trump.
21
The last time Bib's was charged with corruption Israel dropped the charges!? Then he ran for office and the Israeli people elected him again (unless it was Putin who also helped Bibi win)!
For all the fights Netanyahu has picked, the world over, he was his own worst enemy.
22
I think that this answers the question as to why he was such a hit with Congressional Republicans a couple years ago. They saw their future party leader in him. Trump has just turned it up to 11.
49
Netanyahu has enjoyed power over the course of decades. Power breeds corruption. Bibi's abuse are nothing new, but his senses of entitlement and complacency grew over time to the degree where he now finds himself trapped.
This is a shining example of why separation of powers is so crucial. No authority can be trusted to regulate their own behavior.
20
The leader of Israel is not above the law. Its legislature will see to that.
The leader of United States is above the law. Its legislature will see to that.
Sick? Sad? Both?
28
Being above the law reminds me more of Hilary Clinton than Trump. What law has Trump broken? Trump hasn't colluded with Russia but even if he did, it's not against the law. The evidence is not there for anything despite partisan attempts to get him.
Gosh, widespread corruption, cronyism, fraudulence, selling favors, self-enrichment, lying, and doing anything to get flattering coverage in the media...couple that with a faux "law and order" approach that only seems to apply to those with browner skin and who does he remind me of? And like our own Swamp Thing, he'll put himself above the law when it comes time to step down, crying "bias." It's a whole new twist on Just Say No.
27
Bebe, How could you?
1
Bibi has apparently been watching Herr Drump closely, attributing his legal woes to a police force dominated by left wing ideologues. If only the latter were true.
12
This is good news for the prospect of peace in the Middle East.
6
The Arab street is both cheering and lamenting right now.
Cheering for Israel's public shame.
Lamenting that the take down of a state Leader of an Arab nation charged with corruption will never happen in their lifetimes.
16
Oh what a wonderful world it would be if he, Trump and Putin we're out of office and in jail.
16
Slowly and just in the last years,we've watched the downfall of 4 prominent Leaders from Brazil to South Korea with a handful others still in limbo and YET likes of Duterte,Trump among others just flying through broad daylight radar because we're clearly dissecting the obvious and creating grey areas where there should be none!
Prime Minister,GOOD RIDDANCE!
20
Similarly to our current president, Mr. Netanyahu casts severe doubt on an institution the public should be able to trust in order to save his own neck. It's no wonder Trump and Netanyahu have cozied up - they are playing the same game (and share a border wall fetish). The unravelling of democracy continues at breakneck speed...
14
Change the name and all of this is oddly familiar.
32
Finally.
9
Trump and Netanyahu are big buddies. More than ever you're known by the company you keep. I would not be the least bit surprised if Jared Kushner's name comes up in the investigations in Israel.
24
I can hear the screams and shouts from the conservative supporters of Netanyahu, accusing the police of acting as the SS or Gestapo of ISrael. Many will resent the exposure of Netanyahu as an allebged corrupt politician,so the the ultimate insult will be used: "You should have been gassed by the Germans!, Your parents and all your relatives should have died in the camps!" The fury and level of recriminations has long since reached and passed the boiling point among and between many Israelis, and, Netanyahu may be betting that he can grab on to this tiger of anger and mutual hatred and ride it.
6
Which would not be possible in a non democratic state.
5
Does Israel have a policy on Deja vu? I mean, give me a break please, when hasn't Netanyahu been charged for malfeasance in Office, and if checking, I believe the last two times he won the Prime Minister Office he was invariably charged for mis-using the edicts of the Office? Working as the leading Politician to represent the Nation of Israel with the right hand, as he swears his allegiance by abiding to the conditions the Oath of Office as Prime Minister contains. Then, using the other hand (thank God he only has two -well, that we know of anyway?-) he has managed to gather in mass -allegedly- quite a bit of stuff in amounts that no one can see an end in sight.
Wow, what an article. It calls Netanyahu “contentious,”!which is a bit of an understatement.
Let’s see if justice prevails in Israel, as its biggest defender nation in the world faces its own travails with respect to the rule of law.
29
I don't get it! What is it with right wing politicians that they are always up to their eyes in fraud, bribery, and a wide variety of other criminal activities? Do they all read the biography of Jimmy Hoffa and Richard Nixon?
231
The idea that the right has a monopoly on this type of behavior is laughable.
1
They're authoritarians. The authority is always right. So when they are the authority, anything they do, is automatically OK. And wealth is a sign of success which is a sign of being correct and good, so anything that builds their own wealth - that's good.
9
It is the nature of the "beast" no need to morality they use only religion and hypocrisy, lies and cheating have a look at Pence, Session, Moore, McConnel, Ryan, Mnuchin, Ross, Price, DeVos, Mulvaney, Pruitt, McMahon and of course Kelly & Trump!
Another question?
1
Cronyism and corruption--no wonder Trump likes the guy so much.
479
Even worse, the nutty yahoo is pro-apartheid and anti-free speech.
Laws like the ones mentioned in https://theintercept.com/2018/01/31/kansas-bds-law-free-speech/ and anti-speech entry denials like in https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2018/01/07/18-groups-t... are the exact opposite of what Americans fight wars and legal battles for, and the sort of Erdoğanic tyranny the PM supports.
The only sad part about his exit will be the more extreme ones in line behind. Israelis need to wipe their Knesset clean of crazy and let peace happen.
3
My exact thoughts.
Seems Trump likes to pal around with people who believe they are above the law.
Anyone care to lay odds on how long it will take until the Trump defends this guy?
508
Minutes. Jared Kushner and Netanyahu have a very long association. These revelations should, hopefully, cause a lot of ordinary Americans to think deeply about the roots of this particular scandal and prompt them to rethink their political preferences.
---
https://www.rimaregas.com/2017/08/14/james-baldwin-was-right-being-a-jew...
105
“Mere allegations.” -Trump
9
"It's a witchhunt!"
That's my prediction.
3
I am sure that trump will watch carefully to see how a pro avoids prosecution.
I recently asked an israeli professor which country would hit bottom first. His instant reply his country
159
It'll be a photo finish.
4
and Jared too!
3
Another trump ally in the hot seat.
238
Really? Makes me wonder in these post Porter-gate days if there's a reason to believe the Kushner family's decades long relationship with Netanyahu may be one of many reasons why Jared himself has yet to be granted security clearance credentials.
I think the American people deserve to know why Kushner remains uncredentialed. Don't you?
798
Yes! We do deserve to know why.
4
American people deserve to see Kushner and his coattails leave the WH. American people do not trust him.
8
Right on!
Caught between Benjamin Netanyahu and Vladimir Putin, Jared Kushner is serving two vipers not unlike his convicted felon father.
Jared Kushner has the only credential that matters of being Mr. Ivanka Trump while working for his father-in-law who happens to be President of the United States.
4
I was wondering why he was friends with Mr. Trump. Now I know
155
I think it would be amazing for peace talks if Netanyahu was removed from office. He is a showboat, a lawbreaker, and just generally, not a very good person; at least that's what comes off. Under his leadership, the continue to illegally build housing in Palestinian territory. Hopefully, there's someone with empathy and respect for the law and others, waiting in the wings.
227
If you know Israeli politics today, there's no reason to believe what's next would be better. Netanyahu is often a moderating force, believe it or not, though less so these days now that he has no leash held by the U.S. A feckless left and center has surrendered power to a right wing that itself can and is leveraged by extreme religious and militaristic factions. Israeli voters are not blameless— they let it happen. Netanyahu stays in power by pandering to any faction that will keep him in power to accomplish its own narrow ends. Sound familiar anyone?
10
Just recently he was pushing to annex the West Bank and our Ambassador to the U.N. would have voted to support that and threaten the other member countries with punishment if they did not follow he/trump's lead.
Mrs. E. Roosevelt held that post she is now disgracing.
3
Israel can be Jewish or democratic. It cannot be both.
2
I've been reading a lot about the decline of democracy in the op-eds. This is a solid reminder of why democracy is important. The people and laws are in charge, not the person with despotic tendencies. Good riddance.
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Except the Israeli people keep electing this despot.
4
Perhaps they keep electing him because they want him to remain in office...
1
Yeah, I'd imagine that's why. People like despots, so long as they're not one of their victims.
About time he gets his comeuppance. His meddling in the US election was the last straw for many of us.
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...in conspiracy with John Boehner and the Republican Party.
1
My thoughts exactly. He was more than hostile toward President Obama. He also came to the U.S. to address OUR Congress in hopes of swaying the election toward Trump. I hope they throw the book at him.
2
Justice at work, even for authoritarian politicians.
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I have no idea whether or not he's a criminal, but he's the second-worst leader of an important democracy that I can think of, so good riddance.
My dream is that he and his buddy Trump can become pen pals from their respective cells.
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Can only hope this happens in the U.S.
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Bibi's outbursts against the police speak not only to his guilt, but also to his larger unfitness for office. No political authority can responsibly malign law enforcement. Netanyahu worries only for himself.
146
Sounds familiar.
6
Sounds like someone else we know...
5
Can Bibi fire whomever is investigating him?
1
Hopefully it won’t be long before our own head of state is also held accountable for his voluminous violations.
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Well, I hope so but in the US you have to get rid of the GOP first!
You know this great old party for law and order...a bunch of gangsters with Trump as boss
8
Hey -- he sees Trump digging in with the help of the Republicans -- why not him?
30
Our president will tweet/say what a good person Netanyahu is, how he has always treated him very nicely and he should be granted due process. Could be wrong, but just a hunch.
49
Well, he SHOULD be granted due process...just as any accused individual should. It used to be the American way.
And for the record, this is not an endorsement of Donald Trump. So, don't even try it.
3
Trump will undoubtedly come out swinging on this one. I would add that the Netanyahus are entitled to the due process of law, but I would add that the Israeli police have obviously spent a long time building evidence in what is sure to have been a meticulous and methodical fashion, and that evidence will almost certainly prove to be incontrovertible, and Bibi, his horrible wife and their boorish son are almost certainly toast.
5
Ryan, The American Way doesn't apply in other countries, like Israel.
1
Finally, greed and power has caught up with Netanyahu. His hawkish stance, in Israel, has caused more instability and sparked more tensions by his "wall", and continued slow destruction of the Palestinian people. Another grand ally of Trump, deserves everything he gets; including jail time. Maybe, Israel will put in place a government which wants peace, openness and ethics, than people like Netanyahu. Good riddance.
I wonder how much of this bribery and fraud has come in contact with the Trump administration? Could the Us putting its embassy in Jerusalem be some kind of "pay fro play" arrangement? Hopefully, Interpol follows the money.
543
One cannot make peace with an enemy dedicated to one's destruction.
2
"Texas Liberal" is a good joke, like "colossal peas".
8
For the exact amount ask Jared, he keeps the tabs in order to pay the 15% due to Trump....
As they say in the Middle East, Insha'Allah, may Mueller publish similar conclusions about Trump and his cronies. Israel's democracy is no more immune to oligarchy than we are and this is what infection and deep rot look like.
---
www.rimaregas.com
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There is a veritable treasure trove of information in this Haaretz piece on Netanyahu's main benefactors.
https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/billionaires-mired-in-netanyahu-case...
2
Most Israelis wouldn't say Insha'Allah, but there's an excellent Yiddish equivalent: Zai Gesunt!
In keeping with the culture, it's a bit less reverent. Rough English translation:
We should be so lucky!
2
Charlie,
A lot of Arabic words are used by Sabras in daily conversations in Hebrew, including Insha'Allah. Zai gezunt means "to your health!"
1