Australian Report Links Billionaire Packer to Legal Funds for Netanyahu
An Australian investigation reveals billionaire James Packer transferred $1.25 million to the law firm representing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sparking scrutiny over potential illicit benefits amid ongoing corruption trials.
An investigation published by an Australian newspaper reveals that billionaire businessman James Packer has transferred tens of thousands of dollars monthly over the past two years—totaling at least $1.25 million—to the law firm of Amit Haddad, defense counsel for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his ongoing corruption trials. According to the report by The Sydney Morning Herald, the payments began in September 2024 from Consolidated Press Holdings, Packer's investment vehicle, to Haddad's firm account at Mizrahi-Tefahot Bank in Israel.
The financial transfers commenced roughly two months after Packer and Netanyahu renewed ties following an eight-year estrangement triggered by criminal investigations against the prime minister. Their relationship was rekindled in July 2024 following Netanyahu's address to the US Congress, where Packer attended as a guest before the two shared dinner. Packer has not denied the money transfers but declined to comment. An associate of the 59-year-old billionaire claimed the funds were paid for legal and business work performed for Packer, insisting the payments have "no connection to the legal proceedings ongoing against the prime minister."
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded bluntly to the Australian media inquiry, stating, "I am not interested in your questions. We are very busy. We have elections right now." Attorney Amit Haddad chose not to respond to the allegations. Israeli authorities have repeatedly prohibited Netanyahu from receiving funds from wealthy supporters to finance his legal defense in the 1000, 2000, and 4000 cases. However, the Australian publication noted it could not independently verify whether Netanyahu ultimately benefited from Packer's systematic payments.
Background on Case 1000
Case 1000, often referred to as the "gifts affair," charges Benjamin Netanyahu with fraud and breach of trust. According to the indictment, between October 2011 and December 2016, Netanyahu and his wife Sara received illicit luxury items—including high-end cigars and champagne—from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and later from James Packer, whom Milchan introduced to Netanyahu in 2013.
The indictment alleges that these actions constituted a severe breach of public trust, with gifts flowing continuously in response to requests and deliveries, effectively forming a supply line. The total value of illicit benefits is estimated at 690,000 shekels, with Milchan's share amounting to approximately 462,600 shekels and Packer's contribution totaling roughly 229,000 shekels in cigars and champagne.
