Political rivals slammed decision to postpone PM's corruption trial, but due to widening COVID-19 pandemic, governments across the world are shutting courtrooms as well

As country slows down with introduction of fresh far-reaching rules in attempt to stop pandemic, May 24 date announced just two days before scheduled hearing

Justice minister warns there is ‘real fear of serious harm to public health’ if the court system continues as normal

PM had sought 45-day postponement; will have to be present at the Jerusalem District Court when charges are read out on March 17

Hauser and Hendel reportedly told they have no place in the party if they won't support a coalition that relies on outside support of majority-Arab Joint List

Claiming they haven't received all the case material, PM's lawyers seek continuance on opening session, currently set for next week

Officials in centrist alliance blast Hauser and Hendel; Joint List warns Gantz it won't accept clandestine talks: 'Either we enter through the front door or we don’t enter at all'

Defense team seeks 45-day continuance in opening session, say they haven't received all the material

Yisrael Beytenu chief said to tell confidants PM committed 'unforgivable sin' by assailing him and family members with complaints, says 'no chance' of political alliance

With support from Telem faction within Blue and White and Yisrael Beytenu, Gantz could have more backing than Netanyahu; Liberman said to say wants to send PM 'into retirement'