Netanyahu to be charged in corruption cases: Israeli media

Israel's attorney general announced Thursday he intended to indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, just weeks ahead of April elections.

The attorney general confirmed in a statement that he intended to charge the premier pending a hearing, where Netanyahu would be given a chance to defend himself before charges are filed.

The actual filing of the reported charges will depend on the outcome of a required hearing - likely after the April 9 election - where Netanyahu can try to persuade the attorney-general not to indict him. Netanyahu, who is seeking a fourth consecutive term, denies any wrongdoing.

His right-wing Likud party described the reported charges as "political persecution". It said the prime minister, who has vowed not to resign over the allegations, was due to deliver a statement at 8 pm (1800 GMT).