Official faces pre-indictment hearing

JERUSALEM, Jan. 17 (UPI) -- Israeli justice authorities indicated it could be months before the government makes a final decision on whether to indict Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman.

A two-day pre-indictment hearing is being conducted in Jerusalem following a years-long legal battle involving accusations of money laundering and fraud, the Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday.

Lieberman has denied allegations he funneled millions of dollars into fictitious companies under his control that were registered abroad.

The investigation spanned more than a decade and involved eight countries and several governments, prosecutors said.

Last April Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein announced his intention to indict Lieberman subject to this week's hearing.

"I welcome the opportunity to prove my innocence," Lieberman said.

At the hearing, Lieberman's attorneys will have an opportunity to challenge case materials before the attorney general and state prosecutor.

The process continues Wednesday, if necessary, but Israeli media was told a final decision could be months away, the Times said.