Israeli AG says president should face rape charge

Israel's attorney general recommended Tuesday that President Moshe Katsav be indicted on charges of rape and abuse of power, a stunning accusation against the country's ceremonial head of state.

A final decision on the indictment would be made only after a hearing, where Katsav could present his case.

Katsav has denied the allegations, stemming from complaints made by four women who worked for him during his tenure as president and, before that, as a cabinet minister. Katsav has said he is the victim of a conspiracy by political enemies.

The president's office said Tuesday it had no official comment.

Attorney General Meni Mazuz's office said Tuesday that it had collected enough evidence to support an indictment against Katsav on charges of rape, harassment, abuse of power and obstruction of justice, among other crimes.

The president enjoys immunity while in office and could be tried only after his resignation or end of term, which is later this year. His lawyers had indicated he would resign if indicted.