Tel Aviv, December 11 – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the witness stand on Sunday in his long-running corruption trial, marking a historic moment as he became the first sitting Israeli leader to testify in open court.
Netanyahu, who faces charges of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust across three investigations, struck a defiant tone during his testimony.
“I have waited eight years for this moment, to say the truth as I remember it, which is important for justice. There is no justice without truth,” he declared.
The trial, which began in 2020, has been prolonged by its unprecedented nature, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other delays.
The Key Cases Against Netanyahu
- The Bezeq Affair
Netanyahu, in his capacity as Communications Minister, is accused of providing regulatory benefits to Bezeq, a telecom giant. In return, Bezeq’s majority shareholder, Shaul Elovitch, allegedly ensured favorable coverage for Netanyahu on the Walla News website. - The Gifts Affair
Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, are alleged to have accepted gifts worth $200,000 from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan. The prosecution claims the gifts were given in exchange for assisting Milchan in securing a US visa and modifying tax regulations to his advantage. - The Yediot Affair
The Prime Minister is accused of aiding Yediot Aharonot publisher Arnon Mozes by advancing policies favorable to his newspaper. In return, Mozes reportedly offered positive media coverage for Netanyahu.
A Trial in Unique Circumstances
For security reasons, Netanyahu was allowed to testify in an underground bunker at the Tel Aviv Magistrate’s Court. The proceedings, typically held at the Jerusalem District Court, have seen testimony from several high-profile figures, including former Prime Ministers Yair Lapid and Tzipi Livni, among others.
While Netanyahu rarely attended hearings previously, his court appearance drew significant public and political attention. Demonstrations were held outside the courthouse, with supporters and opponents voicing their views.
Historic Implications
Netanyahu’s trial is unprecedented in Israel’s history, as no sitting Prime Minister has ever faced criminal charges while in office. Former PM Ehud Olmert stepped down in 2008 before his corruption indictment, later serving a prison sentence.
Legal experts estimate that the trial may continue for another one to two years, given its complexity and the lengthy witness list.
