Israeli politicians go on trial

Mr Hanegbi (r) chairs a key security committee in parliament

Trials have begun of two Israeli politicians, in separate cases that are among a number involving senior figures accused of wrongdoing.

Former Justice Minister Haim Ramon is charged with sexual misconduct; Tzahi Hanegbi is charged with making illegal appointments as environment minister.

Both Mr Ramon and Mr Hanegbi deny doing anything improper.

Israeli media say prosecutors have also begun drafting an indictment against scandal-hit President Moshe Katsav.

Police recommended on Sunday night that Mr Katsav, whose post is largely ceremonial, should be charged with rape and sexual harassment.

Mr Katsav denies all the allegations, which are the most serious ever made against an Israeli leader.

The indictment will be presented to Attorney General Menachem Mazuz within two weeks, reports say. He will decide whether to accept the draft or have it amended.

Sleaze worries

Mr Ramon is charged with forcibly carrying out an indecent act when he kissed a female solider and inserted his tongue in her mouth.

Mr Katsav has said he was the victim of "public lynching"

Charges against Mr Hanegbi include fraud, election bribery and perjury.

Correspondents say allegations of sleaze at the top of Israeli politics have shaken the establishment and caused dismay and disillusionment among already jaded voters.

The alleged scandals come amid widespread dissatisfaction at the performance of Israel's leaders during the recent war in Lebanon.

Mr Katsav says he is the victim of a plot to destroy his career and has refused to step down unless an indictment is served against him.

On Monday, he stayed away during the opening session of parliament, a grand state occasion where the president would normally make a high-profile speech.