Netanyahu Testifies in Historic Corruption Trial

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has begun testifying in his corruption trial, marking the first time a sitting Israeli leader has faced such allegations. He is charged with fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes in three cases, which he claims are part of a politically motivated 'witch hunt' aimed at removing him from power. Netanyahu's testimony follows substantial public discontent regarding his handling of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, particularly concerning Israeli captives taken by Hamas. His legal team is expected to challenge the charges vigorously, which involve accusations linked to media tycoons and substantial gifts from wealthy figures. In a show of solidarity, several ministers and members of Knesset have publicly criticized the judicial process, asserting that the cases against Netanyahu are collapsing. This trial has not only intensified scrutiny on Netanyahu's leadership but also sparked widespread debate about Israel's political landscape and the implications for its governance amid ongoing military conflicts.