Packer Firm Wired $1.25 Million to Netanyahu Defense Law Firm

Australian billionaire James Packer’s company sent at least $1.25 million to the law firm representing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a report published Monday.

The Sydney Morning Herald states the funds moved in monthly wire transfers of $50,000 starting September 23, 2024. The payments originated from a Citibank account held by Consolidated Press International and arrived at Bank Mizrahi Tefahot for the Tel Aviv firm Hadad Roth Shenhar.

A source familiar with Packer’s financial affairs told the newspaper that the transfers covered work performed by the company. This work included finding investment deals in Israel, and the source claimed the payments had no connection to the prime minister’s trial.

The newspaper reported that it requested evidence of these deals or work from Packer and his company. Neither party had replied by the time of publication, and Packer did not deny the payments when approached. The report was released on the eve of Israeli elections while the trial continues.

Netanyahu is accused in Case 1000 of accepting gifts from Packer and businessman Arnon Milchan. Prosecutors allege the gifts formed a regular supply line in exchange for political favors. The indictment details NIS 229,174 in gifts from Packer between 2014 and 2016, consisting of cigars and champagne.

Netanyahu’s defense team has not publicly addressed the new financial disclosures. Amit Hadad, a defense attorney, refused to answer questions from the newspaper or at the Jerusalem District Court. A spokesman for Netanyahu responded to the report by saying, "I couldn't give a monkey's about your questions. We are very busy. We have an election on right now."