Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday downplayed calls from the country’s police chiefs to indict the leader on corruption charges, suggesting the allegations against him were baseless and fueled by bias, The Associated Press reported.
“After I read the recommendations report, I can say it is biased, extreme, full of holes, like Swiss cheese, and doesn’t hold water,” Netanyahu said, according to the AP.
Israeli police on Tuesday recommended bribery charges against Netanyahu in two cases of alleged corruption. One charge stems from allegations Netanyahu accepted gifts, including expensive cigars and champagne, from wealthy individuals, including a Hollywood producer.
{mosads}The other corruption charge is related to accusations the prime minister offered a newspaper publisher to push legislation that would harm a rival publication in exchange for favorable coverage.
Netanyahu had previously said he expected such charges, but was not concerned about it having an effect on his government.
On Wednesday, Netanyahu said the charges were inflated and suggested the police were on a witch hunt. He vowed to continue leading the government, and said “nothing will come” of the charges, the AP reported.
Israel’s attorney general will review the police recommendations and then determine whether to file charges against Netanyahu. The process could take months, according to the AP.
Netanyahu has served as prime minister since 2009 and previously served in the role from 1996-99.