**Netanyahu Defends Against Corruption Allegations in Landmark Trial**

**In a historic courtroom appearance, Netanyahu claims political persecution and downplays serious charges against him, even as the nation grapples with ongoing conflict.**

 

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, made headlines as he took the stand in his ongoing corruption trial, marking a first for a sitting leader in the country. This unprecedented moment comes as Israel is embroiled in a war in Gaza and engaged in military actions in Syria, underlining the tumultuous context of these proceedings.

Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, introduced the defense's case by labeling the trial as a politically motivated attack rather than a legitimate legal process. According to Hadad, the prosecution was not investigating crime but pursuing Netanyahu, whom he framed as a victim of a "political witch-hunt."

In his testimony, Netanyahu sought to minimize the impact of the bribery, fraud, and breach of trust charges he faces. He emphasized his commitment to leading the country during a challenging period, asserting, "I am also a prime minister…and I think the two can be done in parallel."

Throughout the trial, which has seen delays and venue changes due to security concerns, Netanyahu has been accused of exchanging regulatory advantages with media moguls in return for favorable press coverage and accepting luxurious gifts, including cigars and champagne, from a Hollywood producer.

Notable in his testimony was Netanyahu's assertion that allegations regarding the gifts were "absurd" and that Israeli media has engaged in a concerted effort to undermine him. He criticized the media's perceived leftist bias and claimed he would have received better coverage had he aligned with a two-state solution approach.

Engaging directly with the judges while standing, he declared, "Had I moved two steps to the left, I would have been hailed." The trial has attracted supporters and detractors outside the courtroom, further highlighting the division within Israeli society.

Prominent ministers have shown support for Netanyahu, framing the trial as an embarrassment to the state. Yet, voices of dissent resonate loudly, with some citizens accusing him of prioritizing political survival over national interests, especially regarding the plight of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

The polarized atmosphere surrounding these proceedings has deepened existing rifts in Israeli society, and as an uncertain ceasefire remains fragile, tensions between Netanyahu’s administration and the judiciary continue to escalate. The trial’s lengthy duration, anticipated to exceed a year and possibly involve an appeal to the Supreme Court, casts a long shadow over Israeli politics amid unrelenting conflict in the region.