Netanyahu in talks to reach plea bargain in corruption trial

https://www.npr.org/2022/01/16/ [login to see] /netanyahu-in-talks-to-reach-plea-bargain-in-corruption-trial
Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is negotiating a plea deal in his corruption trial that could lead to him stepping away from politics for seven years.

The former prime minister is facing three separate corruption cases that involve media moguls and wealthy supporters. The charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust stem from allegations including trading favors to media groups in exchange for positive press coverage.

The talks are going on behind closed doors with Israel's attorney general.

A person involved in the negotiations told NPR a deal would have Netanyahu admit to breach of trust, not bribery, and avoid prison. But disagreement remains over whether the final deal would necessitate Netanyahu leaving politics for seven years, at the end of which he would be nearly 80 years old.

Netanyahu remains a member of Israel's parliament, the Knesset.

An Israeli justice official confirmed to NPR that the negotiations are happening and are in the early stages. Both people spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the talks.