Netanyahu goes on trial in Israel charged with corruption
Netanyahu, 70, professed his innocence, saying the investigation against him was "tainted" and vowing that he would continue to lead the country.
Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 24) became the first serving Israeli prime minister to go on trial, appearing in court on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust.
Netanyahu, 70, professed his innocence, saying the investigation against him was "tainted" and vowing that he would continue to lead the country.
The trial came exactly a week after he was sworn in to a record fifth term as head of an Israeli unity government, ending more than a year of political deadlock.
Israel's longest-serving prime minister was indicted in November in cases involving gifts from millionaire friends and for allegedly seeking regulatory favours for media tycoons in return for favourable coverage.
He appeared at Jerusalem District Court flanked by a clutch of cabinet ministers from his right-wing Likud party. In the courtroom, one of the judges asked Netanyahu whether he had read and understood the indictment. He replied: "Yes, your Honour."
The hearing lasted an hour. The court will consider excusing Netanyahu from future, as-yet unscheduled hearings. Israeli analysts say the whole trial could last months or even years.
Before the hearing, Netanyahu appealed to public opinion, addressing television cameras in the courthouse hallway.
"These investigations were tainted and stitched-up from the first moment," Netanyahu said.
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