Elkin Warns Case 2000 Inquiry Risks Parliamentary Immunity

Minister Ze'ev Elkin began testifying for Netanyahu's defense in Jerusalem District Court in Case 2000, which concerns alleged negotiations between Netanyahu and Arnon Mozes over Israel Hayom legislation and coverage. Prosecutor Alon Gildin sought to question him first as a direct witness, arguing he is politically aligned with and dependent on Netanyahu; Judge Rivka Friedman-Feldman declined to extend the session. Elkin said police questioning about coalition negotiations and legislative motives made him uncomfortable and warned that criminalizing such work undermines parliamentary immunity. He also testified that Netanyahu consistently sought more media competition and that political-media relationships were understood as reciprocal, not criminal.