Courtroom chaos: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu falls ill — concerns mount over his health

Chaos ensued in the courtroom when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unexpectedly became ill during his corruption trial. The session, which was already under intense scrutiny, was cut short.

Tensions are clearly rising, both inside the courtroom and across Israel's political landscape, as concerns about Netanyahu's health grow.

Just days before, a prior hearing was adjourned early to accommodate a diplomatic call. Tensions rose further when a protester disrupted the courtroom, prompting the defense to threaten walkouts if security breaches persisted throughout the trial, as per a report.

During his court appearance on Wednesday morning, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that he was not feeling well. Consequently, the trial session was adjourned after only thirty minutes.

What happened with the protester in the courtroom?

Netanyahu is nevertheless anticipated to show up at the Knesset today to vote against the opposition's proposal to dissolve the body.

Adv. Amit Hadad, Netanyahu's lawyer, asked for the hearing to be adjourned earlier than planned on Monday, at 1:45 p.m., during the third session of Netanyahu's cross-examination at the Tel Aviv District Court, citing what he called "an important diplomatic call."

Tadmor, the prosecutor, requested that the cut time be rescheduled for another day. A protester stormed into the courtroom after a hearing break and started yelling at him, "Loser, zero, take that smile off your face." The protester was promptly removed by security.

The defense team will leave the courtroom in protest the next time that happens, stated Hadad, turning to the judges.

FAQs

Why did Netanyahu's court hearing end early?
He stated that he felt unwell, and the session was terminated after only 30 minutes.

Did anything else unusual occur in court?
Yes, a protester disrupted the session by shouting at Netanyahu before being removed.