Netanyahu Faces Charges of Purchasing Lavish Gifts, Corruption Case Unveiled
Arnon Milchan, the Israeli businessman, producer, and intelligence agent, recently testified in the “File 1000” trial involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The trial focuses on allegations of fraud and abuse of power, as Netanyahu is accused of receiving luxury gifts amounting to 700,000 shekels (180,000 euros) from wealthy individuals, including Milchan, between 2007 and 2016.
Milchan provided his testimony via videoconferencing from a courtroom in Brighton, England, while Netanyahu’s wife, Sara Netanyahu, attended the hearing in the same courtroom in West Jerusalem. Interestingly, when Netanyahu entered the courtroom, Milchan greeted him via video link, referring to him as “Hello Bibi,” the prime minister’s nickname.
During his statement, Milchan described Netanyahu as “accessible and approachable.” He admitted to buying cigars and champagne for the Netanyahu family, with the number of requested gifts increasing over time. When asked if he had given the defendant and his wife cigars and champagne, Milchan affirmed.
Addressing the mode of interaction in relation to the expensive gifts, Milchan revealed that it was sometimes on his own initiative to bring cigars and champagne, which he referred to as “roses” and “leaves,” respectively. At other times, Netanyahu would ask if there were any “leaves” in the house. Milchan emphasized that they always had stock at home, and these gifts often went to the prime minister and his wife. The businessman explained that the process initially started with requests from Netanyahu and later became routine.
Milchan stated that the cost of the gifts did not raise any suspicions for him, as he has earned millions in the film industry. He also highlighted that he had purchased jewelry for Sara Netanyahu at least once, with the prime minister informing him that gifts from friends were acceptable, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
Additionally, Milchan mentioned his close relationships with former prime ministers Shimon Peres and Ariel Sharon, besides Netanyahu. As the hearing concluded, the prosecution called for an expedited process, including holding a hearing during the holiday period in July.
Arnon Milchan, 78, is a prominent figure in the film industry, having produced famous films such as Fight Club, Mr and Mrs Smith, 12 Years a Slave, The Revenant, and JFK.
It is important to note that Netanyahu faces multiple corruption cases. On November 21, 2019, Israeli Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit demanded his prosecution in three separate cases, accusing him of bribery, treason, and abuse of office for personal purposes. Netanyahu’s trial began on May 24, 2020, making him the first Israeli prime minister to be tried while in office. One of the cases relates to the gifts received from Arnon Milchan and Australian billionaire James Packer, including champagne, cigars, jewelry, and plane tickets. The indictment alleges that these gifts were given in exchange for political benefits. Netanyahu maintains his innocence and denies the charges brought against him. If found guilty, he could face up to 10 years in prison.
