Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made history as the first sitting leader to testify as a criminal defendant, appearing in a Tel Aviv courtroom to address charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery. Netanyahu, accused of receiving luxury gifts from billionaires and manipulating media coverage for personal gain, denied wrongdoing, labeling the cases against him as “an ocean of absurdness.” The trial, taking place during Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, adds to the challenges facing the embattled leader, whose popularity has waned since the October 2023 Hamas attack.

Netanyahu’s testimony, set to span several weeks, is unfolding amid accusations that he is prolonging the Gaza war to deflect attention from his legal troubles. Critics question his ability to manage the country effectively while dedicating substantial time to the trial, as the nation confronts threats on multiple fronts, including regional tensions with Iran and fallout from Syria’s regime collapse. Despite calls for resignation, Netanyahu has rejected stepping down, insisting he can balance his responsibilities.

The trial also casts a spotlight on deep divisions within Israel, with protests outside the courthouse calling Netanyahu a “Crime Minister” and supporters dismissing the charges as politically motivated. The most serious allegations involve claims of regulatory favors for Bezeq telecom in exchange for positive media coverage. Netanyahu’s legal battles, coupled with public dissatisfaction over the Gaza war, have left his political future in jeopardy, with polls suggesting he may struggle to retain power in a future election.

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