In an unprecedented moment in Israeli history, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the witness stand Tuesday morning in his long-running corruption trial, becoming the first sitting Israeli leader to testify as a criminal defendant.
The testimony, which began at the Tel Aviv District Court amid tight security, marks a pivotal moment in a legal saga that has spanned eight years and contributed to significant political turbulence in Israel. The proceedings are expected to continue for approximately two months.
Netanyahu's defense attorney, Amit Hadad, launched a forceful opening statement, directly challenging the prosecution's core allegations. "We have witnessed a complete failure of the state's case," Hadad declared to the three-judge panel, arguing that key elements of the indictment had "collapsed" during the prosecution's presentation of evidence.
Of particular contention is the allegation regarding the Walla news website, a central piece of what is known as Case 4000. Hadad contended that far from receiving favorable coverage, as prosecutors allege, Netanyahu faced "venomous and hostile" treatment from the outlet. "How can we be prosecuted for receiving beneficial coverage when the evidence shows exactly the opposite?" Hadad argued.
The scene outside the courthouse reflected Israel's deep political divisions, with both protesters and supporters gathering early Tuesday morning. Among those present was National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right ally of Netanyahu, who characterized the proceedings as "a persecution" against the prime minister.
The timing of Netanyahu's testimony has drawn criticism from some quarters, including Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar, who questioned the wisdom of requiring the prime minister's court appearance while Israel faces multiple security challenges. "The Middle East is undergoing historic changes with dramatic implications for Israel's security," Zohar said, pointing to ongoing negotiations for hostage releases and military operations on several fronts.
The trial, which began in 2020, centers on three separate cases involving allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The prime minister has consistently denied all wrongdoing, characterizing the proceedings as a politically motivated witch hunt.
The testimony is taking place in a specially secured courtroom in Tel Aviv, rather than Jerusalem where the trial began, due to security considerations. While the proceedings are not being broadcast live, their historical significance cannot be understated: never before has an Israeli prime minister testified in their own criminal trial while in office.
But, with Gali Baharav Miara as Israel's Attorney General, nothing surprises us anymore.
We will provide updates as they become available.
KIkar HaShabbat contributed to this article.
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