Netanyahu probed on luxury trips abroad

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s state comptroller Micha Lindenstrauss has questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over allegations of taking lavish, privately paid trips abroad while serving in public office.

A comptroller spokesman says staff questioned Netanyahu at his office Monday. The meeting however did not hit Israeli news until Friday as the Prime Minister began a trip to Canada and the US.

It is the first time Netanyahu is questioned about the allegations.

The comptroller began the probe last year following an expose on Israel’s Channel 10 alleging that, between his first and second terms as prime minister, Netanyahu and his wife enjoyed expensive trips and meals paid for by wealthy associates.

Netanyahu denies the allegations and has filed a libel suit against Channel 10.