Internal documents from German competitor also indicate Israeli Navy later actively sought to assist firm in securing contracts

In plea bargain, Eliezer Zandberg found guilty of breach of trust for having received over NIS 100,000 from shipbuilder's representative while serving as fundraising group's head

The five members of the government-backed commission of inquiry will need to have no ties to the scandal-ridden procurement deal from a German shipbuilder

Committee will evaluate decision-making by political echelon surrounding sensitive procurement, in case that has already snared several close associates of Netanyahu

Agreement will see three new vessels delivered to Israeli Navy, includes reciprocal contract for German shipbuilder to make €850 million in purchases from Israel

PM says he ordered review of deal after taking office; Merkel says countries agree that 'there must always be a vision of a lasting democratic Jewish State of Israel'

Justices say there was 'improper and worrying conduct' in corruption case that has ensnared Netanyahu's close associates, but stop short of ordering a probe

After feuding over the matter last month, defense and justice ministers to form inter-ministerial teams to discuss controversial case

Defense minister has already submitted drafts of his plan to launch a state inquiry into the contentious purchase of naval vessels from Germany to finance and justice ministries

Unclear if new investigation will win necessary government support; if approved, commission would be able to subpoena witnesses, have broader legal powers