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Israel's Katsav faces rape charge Israel's Katsav faces rape charge
(20 minutes later)
Israeli President Moshe Katsav is to be charged with rape and abuse of power, the ministry of justice has announced.Israeli President Moshe Katsav is to be charged with rape and abuse of power, the ministry of justice has announced.
Correspondents say a final decision on the indictment would be made only after a hearing, where Mr Katsav could present his case. Correspondents say a final decision on the indictment will be made only after a hearing, where Mr Katsav could present his case.
Mr Katsav, whose position is largely ceremonial, has denied any wrongdoing.Mr Katsav, whose position is largely ceremonial, has denied any wrongdoing.
The president has faced allegations of rape and sexual misconduct from several female employees. He also faces allegations of wire-tapping. He has faced allegations of rape and sexual misconduct from several female employees. The has been no comment from the president or his office.
Attorney-General Menachem Mazuz's office issued a statement saying that it had collected enough evidence to support an indictment against Mr Katsav on charges of rape, harassment, abuse of power and obstruction of justice, among other crimes.
The president enjoys immunity while in office and can be tried only after his resignation or the end of his term, which is later this year.
His lawyers have previously indicated he would resign if indicted.