Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified for the first time in his corruption trial, calling the charges against him “ridiculous.” Protests erupted outside the Tel Aviv courthouse, as critics and supporters clashed over the embattled leader’s political and legal future.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified for the first time in his long-running corruption trial today, dismissing allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust as "simply ridiculous." Protests erupted outside the Tel Aviv courthouse, with demonstrators demanding accountability as the legal and political turmoil surrounding the Israeli leader intensified.
Inside the packed courtroom, Netanyahu greeted attendees before taking the stand, claiming that his delayed testimony was due to Israel’s “seven fronts” of war, referencing ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Despite last-minute efforts by 12 Cabinet ministers to postpone the proceedings, citing security concerns, the court denied the request, allowing the trial to move forward.
The case, which began in 2020, centers on accusations that Netanyahu used his political position for personal gain. Critics argue that he has exploited national crises to shift attention away from his legal battles—allegations he firmly denies.
Under Israeli law, Netanyahu remains in office unless convicted by the Supreme Court. However, opposition leaders and international organizations, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), have escalated scrutiny over his leadership, adding allegations of war crimes to the mounting controversies.
As protests continue and the trial progresses, Netanyahu’s future hangs in the balance, with both his political career and legacy under intense pressure.
Read next
16:49
Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary signals diplomatic defiance as he travels despite an ICC arrest warrant. With Hungary rejecting the court’s ruling, the trip highlights shifting alliances while Israel presses ahead with its military operations in Gaza amid growing international pressure.
10:57
Court Testimony
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resumed his testimony at the Tel Aviv District Court on Tuesday, continuing his defense in the high-profile corruption trial, where he faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.
00:31
Israel’s top court has suspended the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, escalating tensions within the government.
06:50
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, citing distrust and the agency’s failure to foresee the October 7 Hamas assault.
13:28
Israel’s far-right politician and leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, Itamar Ben-Gvir, is set to return to Benjamin Netanyahu’s government amid an intensification of the war in the Gaza Strip.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment