Ceasefire would hasten his jailing: Araghchi jabs Netanyahu over corruption hearing

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the resumption of his long-running corruption trial on Sunday, linking the legal proceedings to the ongoing regional conflict and calling for a ceasefire that he suggested could hasten Netanyahu’s sentencing and subsequent imprisonment.

In a pointed social media post, Araghchi appeared to imply that the war had been used to delay the Israeli leader’s legal troubles and that its possible end could accelerate judicial outcomes.

He wrote, "Netanyahu's criminal trial resumes on Sun(day). A region-wide ceasefire, incl(uding) in Lebanon, would hasten his jailing".

Expressing hope that the ceasefire, reached between Tehran and Washington on Tuesday, stays and holds firm. However, he seemed to be suggesting that if Israel is allowed to dishonour the deal, as it has been bombing Lebanon – which Iran said was part of the agreement – then it would hamper America’s interest.

"If the US wishes to crater its economy by letting Netanyahu kill diplomacy, that would ultimately be its choice. We think that would be dumb but are prepared for it," he added.

NETANYAHU FACING CORRUPTION CHARGES

Araghchi’s offensive comes at a sensitive moment as Netanyahu’s corruption trial, which began in 2020, remains unresolved.

The Israeli prime minister faces charges in three separate cases involving allegations of fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes. Netanyahu has consistently denied all accusations and pleaded not guilty.

Adding to the political complexity, Netanyahu last year formally sought a presidential pardon from Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

The request, which includes both a detailed legal submission from his lawyer and a personal appeal, is currently under review by the justice ministry before being passed to the president’s legal adviser.

Officials have described the move as extraordinary, noting its significant legal and political implications.

MIDDLE EAST TENSIONS

Araghchi’s criticism coincides with renewed tensions between Israel and Lebanon, where recent Israeli bombardments in Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern regions have resulted in heavy casualties.

Reports indicate that over 200 people have been killed and more than 1,000 injured in strikes carried out over the past few days, with thousands more displaced by the escalating violence.

ISRAEL READY FOR PEACE TALKS

Despite the ongoing hostilities, Netanyahu has signalled a possible diplomatic opening, instructing his cabinet to initiate direct peace talks with Lebanon.

The proposed discussions are expected to focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing longer-term stability between the two sides.

Lebanon, however, has maintained that a ceasefire is a necessary precondition for any meaningful negotiations.

President Joseph Aoun has emphasised that halting the violence is the only viable path forward, noting that diplomatic efforts are gaining traction with international stakeholders.

As Netanyahu prepares to return to court, the convergence of legal challenges and military developments has heightened scrutiny on his leadership.