Netanyahu family in graft scandal

– The wife of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu went on trial yesterday for allegedly using state funds to fraudulently pay for hundreds of meals – part of a list of legal troubles facing the family.

The start of Sara Netanyahu’s trial was the latest chapter in a saga intensely scrutinised in Israel, but dismissed by the Netanyahus as another “absurd” attempt to discredit them.

She smiled at her lawyers when

Jerusalem

entering the court and the session began with a hearing on whether the trial should be overseen by a panel of three judges, instead of one, due to the case’s “public sensitivity”.

The court adjourned shortly afterward until November 13, with the trial expected to run for months.

The premier himself faces possible charges in separate corruption investigations, leading to speculation that he will eventually be forced to step down.

Sara was charged with fraud and breach of trust in June.

Prosecutors accuse her of misusing state funds to pay for catered meals costing $100 000 (R1.5 million) by falsely declaring there were no cooks available at the premier’s official residence.

From 2010 to 2013, she, her family and guests received “fraudulently from the state hundreds of prepared meals”, the indictment read. – AFP