Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in court on Tuesday, rejecting the charges against him in a landmark corruption trial. He is the first sitting prime minister in Israel’s history to face criminal charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of public trust in three separate cases.
This court appearance follows years of legal challenges and delays, during which Netanyahu sought to postpone proceedings. The trial, which began in May 2020, has been called a pivotal moment for Israeli democracy.
During the hearing, Netanyahu defended himself against allegations, including testimony from former associates, and reiterated his claim that the cases are part of a “relentless witch hunt.” Outside the courthouse, supporters chanted in his favor, while protesters demanded his imprisonment.
“I’m busy with matters of world importance,” Netanyahu said, downplaying the significance of the trial. “If I tell you it’s a drop in the sea, that would be an exaggeration.”
In the first case, Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, are accused of accepting over $260,000 worth of luxury gifts—such as cigars, champagne, and jewelry—from billionaires like Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and Australian businessman James Packer in exchange for political favors. The other two cases involve allegations of Netanyahu seeking favorable media coverage. One concerns alleged negotiations with Arnon Mozes, publisher of Yedioth Ahronoth, to harm a rival newspaper. The other accuses Netanyahu of providing regulatory benefits to Shaul Elovitch, owner of the Walla news website, in return for positive press.
Netanyahu has denied all charges, insisting they are unfounded and politically driven.
The trial has intensified divisions within Israeli society. Critics argue it highlights broader concerns about government corruption, while Netanyahu’s supporters view him as a target of judicial overreach.
Yohanan Plesner, president of the Israel Democracy Institute, called the trial an “important milestone,” noting Netanyahu’s dual roles as prime minister and criminal defendant. He described the ongoing legal battle as a “direct confrontation” with Israel’s key institutions, particularly the judiciary.
Due to Netanyahu’s responsibilities, the trial schedule has been adjusted, with hearings now reduced to two days a week to accommodate his workload amid regional security concerns.
While former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert faced criminal conviction, Netanyahu’s case is the first where a sitting prime minister has taken the stand.
His legal troubles coincide with his government’s push to weaken judicial powers, a move that has sparked widespread protests. Critics contend Netanyahu has used conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon as an excuse to delay his trial, while the prosecution argues that a swift conclusion is in the public’s best interest.
