Netanyahu Cross-Examined on Gifts in Corruption Trial

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has begun his historic cross-examination in the Tel Aviv District Court, making him the first sitting Israeli leader to take the stand as a defendant. The prosecution, led by attorney Yehonatan Tadmor, is initially focusing on Case 1000, where Netanyahu is accused of accepting luxury gifts from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and Australian billionaire James Packer in exchange for favors, a charge he denies. The cross-examination seeks to challenge Netanyahu’s credibility and memory, with prosecutors pressing him on his repeated claims of forgetfulness during earlier interrogations. Judges have raised concerns about the legal procedures for submitting evidence during the cross-examination, adding complexity to the proceedings. The trial, expected to last up to a year, is frequently disrupted by Netanyahu's duties as prime minister during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The case continues to divide Israeli society.