Ex-employee of Israeli PM's wife wins abuse case against her

JERUSALEM — A former employee of the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won a court case against her alleging mistreatment, Israeli media reported yesterday.

The verdict is a new setback for Sara Netanyahu, who has been repeatedly accused of abusive behavior toward household staff.

Channel 2 TV and other outlets said Jerusalem's labor court awarded Guy Eliyahu $30,000 in damages on Sunday. Eliyahu claimed Mrs. Netanyahu had behaved abusively toward him, yelling and making unreasonable demands.

Amit Hadad, a Netanyahu family lawyer, said the allegations were "false" and "disconnected from reality."

Also Sunday, police reportedly recommended indicting Mrs. Netanyahu for allegedly misusing state funds and excessive household spending.

The Netanyahus have long faced scrutiny over their spending and have fended off accusations their lifestyles are out of touch with ordinary Israelis.

In February, another former employee won a case alleging he was subjected to abusive language and insults by Mrs. Netanyahu.