Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has led the country for 13 years, was indicted Thursday by the country's top prosecutor on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in an investigation the leader has called an "attempted coup."

Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit charged Netanyahu with fraud and breach of trust in three cases, and bribery in one case.

The indictment centers on allegations that the prime minister and his wife accepted more than $260,000 worth of jewelry, cigars, champagne and other gifts in exchange for political favors. The prime minister is also accused of interfering with regulatory bodies and lawmakers on behalf of two media companies in exchange for positive news coverage.

The charges do not mean that Netanyahu, 70, will resign, but the indictment might cripple Netanyahu's chances in the looming elections.

Source : VOA