By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his full support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following a ruling by an Israeli court that denied the Prime Minister’s request to delay testimony in his long-running corruption trial.

Speaking over the weekend, Trump described Netanyahu as a “war hero” and criticized the legal proceedings as politically motivated. He warned that continued prosecution of Netanyahu during a period of regional tension could undermine joint efforts between the United States and Israel, particularly regarding security coordination and hostage negotiations with Hamas.

On Sunday, the Jerusalem District Court confirmed that Netanyahu would still be required to testify but postponed hearings originally scheduled for this week, citing unspecified national security concerns. The ruling came shortly after Trump publicly suggested that the trial could negatively impact bilateral relations, especially given the substantial U.S. military and financial support to Israel.

In response, Netanyahu thanked President Trump on social media, reaffirming what he called a “historic friendship” and promising continued cooperation on shared regional priorities.

Opposition lawmakers and legal analysts in Israel have expressed concern over the U.S. president’s remarks, arguing that they blur the lines between international diplomacy and domestic judicial independence. Critics warn that foreign influence—particularly when tied to foreign aid—could erode public trust in Israel’s legal institutions.

Netanyahu’s trial, which includes charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in three separate cases, has been ongoing since 2020. He denies all wrongdoing and has accused prosecutors of conducting a politically motivated campaign against him.

As of June 29, 2025, the trial remains active, though proceedings are being closely monitored amid heightened regional tensions and increasing international attention.