Netanyahu testifies in corruption trial as leadership questioned

Dec. 10, 2024 – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in court Monday in his corruption trial, marking the first time he has taken the stand in a case that has gripped the nation.

Netanyahu, 75, is accused of accepting luxury gifts such as cigars and champagne from wealthy benefactors in exchange for personal and business favors. He also faces allegations of promoting favorable regulatory changes for media tycoons in return for positive coverage of himself and his family.

Netanyahu, who denies the charges, has described the trial as a politically motivated attack by adversaries in the media and the judiciary, calling it a “witch hunt.”

The court schedule requires him to testify three times a week for six hours per session, raising concerns about how he will balance his legal obligations with leading a country at war.

Critics argue that the trial could hinder his ability to govern effectively, while supporters see the charges as an attempt to remove him from office through the courts.