[67943] The legal appointments storm and the Netanyahu trial: Day 88 of the Prime Minister's testimony

Tension surrounding legal appointments and the Netanyahu trial

Today, May 20, 2026, the political and legal system faces two parallel fronts: a struggle over key positions in the judicial system and the conclusion of another day of testimony in the Prime Minister's trial.

The controversy over appointments in the judicial system

Member of Knesset Merav Ben-Ari of the 'Yesh Atid' faction addressed in an interview with Galatz (according to Daphna Liel) her party's support for the candidacy of Judge Elron. Ben-Ari emphasized that "the seniority system is not the Ten Commandments," and that Elron is "a worthy man who challenged the seniority system" (according to Political Arena). However, Ben-Ari sharply criticized Netanyahu, claiming he is working to appoint his private lawyer to serve the needs of the government (according to Daphna Liel).

Day 88 of Netanyahu's testimony

In the legal arena, the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues. On his 88th day of testimony, Eli Tsipori – a journalist identified with the line defending Netanyahu and who sharply attacks the judicial system and the media – reported that the Prime Minister attacked the expected witnesses in the case. According to Netanyahu, it is an "interesting parade" of former senior officials, including Avichai Mandelblit, Shai Nitzan, and Roni Alsheikh, who he claims collaborated with Noni Mozes to receive "caressing media coverage."

Netanyahu added and called his prosecution "insane" and wondered if his decision to block a law and go to elections was the grounds for his prosecution. Additionally, the Prime Minister criticized his lawyer, Amit Hadad, and wondered about the legal tactics the latter is taking against his political rivals, saying: "Are you coming to replace me with a tactic? Talking to me about my tactics against a political rival? It's delusional!"