Israeli PM Netanyahu to Testify in Historic Corruption Case

Netanyahu trial/ Israeli corruption case/ Netanyahu testimony/ Bibi Files documentary/ Gaza war impact/ JERUSALEM/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to testify Tuesday in his ongoing corruption trial, marking the first time an Israeli prime minister takes the stand as a criminal defendant. The trial, involving allegations of bribery and fraud, coincides with his leadership during the Gaza war and an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes.

---

Netanyahu’s Trial: Quick Looks

• Historic Testimony: Netanyahu will testify for the first time in his corruption trial, a historic moment for Israel.
• Allegations: The trial involves accusations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in three cases.
• Timing: Netanyahu’s testimony occurs amidst the Gaza war, fragile ceasefires, and international scrutiny.
• Media Coverage: A new documentary, The Bibi Files, reveals key interrogation footage and testimony details.
• Court Security: Proceedings will occur in an underground Tel Aviv courtroom for security reasons.
• Trial Length: Netanyahu’s testimony is expected to last weeks, with a verdict unlikely before 2026.

---

Israeli PM Netanyahu to Testify in Historic Corruption Case

Deep Look

Netanyahu’s Testimony Begins in Corruption Trial

For the first time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will take the witness stand Tuesday in his corruption trial. The trial, which began in 2020, involves allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust across three cases. Netanyahu denies wrongdoing, calling the charges politically motivated, but his appearance marks a significant low point in his decades-long career.

The trial comes during a critical time for Netanyahu, who is also managing the ongoing war in Gaza, overseeing fragile ceasefires with Hezbollah, and addressing international allegations of war crimes.

Details of the Corruption Trial

Netanyahu’s trial revolves around three key cases:

1. Case 1000: Allegations that Netanyahu received lavish gifts, including champagne and cigars, from billionaire Arnon Milchan in exchange for political favors.
2. Case 2000: Accusations that Netanyahu negotiated favorable press coverage with the publisher of an influential Israeli newspaper in return for regulatory benefits.
3. Case 4000: Claims that Netanyahu advanced policies benefiting a media mogul in exchange for positive coverage on a prominent news website.

Prosecutors have brought forward 140 witnesses, fewer than the initial 300 planned. Evidence includes police documents, recordings, and text messages. Netanyahu’s defense argues the investigations were biased and flawed.

Prosecution’s Strategy

Prosecutors aim to portray Netanyahu as obsessed with media coverage, willing to abuse power for personal gain. Witness testimonies have depicted a leader micromanaging his image and leveraging his authority for undue influence.

• One aide called Netanyahu a “control freak” over his public image.
• Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan testified to providing tens of thousands of dollars in gifts to Netanyahu and his wife.
• A former aide backtracked on key allegations, raising questions about the credibility of some witnesses.

Netanyahu’s Defense Begins

With the prosecution resting its case earlier this year, the trial now shifts to the defense. Netanyahu’s lawyers are expected to depict him as a law-abiding leader targeted by politically motivated investigations. His testimony will span weeks, with sessions scheduled three days per week.

Netanyahu’s appearance will take place in a fortified underground Tel Aviv courtroom due to security concerns. This rare arrangement underscores the high-profile nature of the trial and the sensitive political environment in Israel.

Wider Context: War in Gaza and Political Fallout

Netanyahu’s trial coincides with his management of the Gaza war, following Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks on Israel. Critics accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict to distract from domestic challenges, including the trial.

The controversy surrounding Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul last year has further polarized Israeli society. Critics claim the reforms were designed to weaken the judiciary and shield Netanyahu from legal repercussions.

Families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas have also criticized Netanyahu, alleging he prioritizes political survival over their loved ones’ release.

Public and International Scrutiny

The trial’s developments have captured global attention. A new documentary, The Bibi Files, has shed light on interrogation footage, showing Netanyahu alternately combative and anxious. The film also includes insights into the lavish lifestyle of Netanyahu’s family, further complicating his public image.

Netanyahu’s legal troubles are compounded by international challenges, including an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes related to Gaza.

What’s Next?

The trial’s conclusion remains years away, with a verdict not expected before 2026. Even if found guilty, Netanyahu can appeal to Israel’s Supreme Court, further prolonging the legal battle.

The defense will argue that Netanyahu’s actions, while controversial, did not amount to criminal misconduct. Once the defense rests, both sides will present summaries before the three-judge panel deliberates.

More on World News