Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s legal team has requested a two-and-a-half-month delay in his corruption trial testimony, citing security concerns that hindered his preparation. The Jerusalem District Court will hold a hearing on Wednesday at 11 a.m. to review the request, with the prosecution required to respond by noon Tuesday.

Netanyahu’s testimony was initially scheduled to begin on December 2, marking the start of the defense phase of his trial after the prosecution rested earlier this year. His defense is expected to last several hours per day, extending over several weeks.

In their request, Netanyahu’s legal team emphasized that a series of recent security incidents, particularly related to ongoing regional tensions, have made it impossible for the prime minister to prepare for his testimony in time. They argue that this delay is necessary for a fair trial.

The delay request comes after Netanyahu’s 2020 conflict of interest agreement, which allowed him to continue serving as prime minister while under indictment, asserted that he could manage both his political duties and legal defense. If granted, the delay may prompt watchdog groups to petition the High Court of Justice, pushing for Netanyahu to step down while his legal proceedings continue.

The outcome of Wednesday’s hearing could have significant implications for Netanyahu’s trial and his tenure as Israel’s prime minister amid mounting legal and political pressures.