For the first time, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in court on Tuesday to testify in his ongoing corruption trial. The hearing, held in an underground chamber in Tel Aviv for security reasons, marks a historic moment as Netanyahu is the first sitting Israeli prime minister to face a criminal trial.
Netanyahu is accused of bribery, fraud, and breach of public trust in three separate cases. These charges stem from allegations of receiving gifts from wealthy businessmen and providing regulatory benefits in exchange for positive media coverage. The trial has drawn widespread attention both in Israel and internationally.
In court, Netanyahu responded to allegations and testimonies, including statements from former close aides who have testified against him. The prime minister has consistently denied the charges, maintaining that he is the target of a politically motivated campaign.
“This is a relentless witch hunt. For eight years, I have waited for this day—eight years of wanting to present the truth, eight years waiting to completely demolish these absurd and baseless accusations,” Netanyahu said at a press conference on Monday evening.
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Tensions High Outside the Courtroom
The trial’s atmosphere extended beyond the courtroom as both supporters and critics of the prime minister gathered outside. According to an AFP journalist on the scene, Netanyahu’s supporters chanted, “Netanyahu, the people support you,” while anti-Netanyahu protesters shouted, “Bibi to prison,” using his popular nickname.
“I will speak in court. I am not running away,” Netanyahu declared, addressing his critics and supporters alike.
Some right-wing lawmakers also attended the session to show solidarity with the embattled leader. Meanwhile, the trial has continued to fuel political divisions in Israel, with the prime minister’s legal battles overlapping with broader debates about governance and corruption.
A Historic Case with High Stakes
The corruption charges against Netanyahu have significant implications for Israel’s political landscape. If convicted, the prime minister could face severe penalties, potentially altering the nation’s leadership dynamics. Legal experts have noted that the trial, which has been ongoing since 2020, is a test of Israel’s judicial system and its ability to hold top leaders accountable.
“This trial is about the principle that no one is above the law, not even the prime minister,” said one legal analyst following the case.