Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday became the first serving Israeli prime minister to go on trial, proclaiming his innocence in the corridor before walking into court to face charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust.
The trial came a week after Israel's longest-serving leader was sworn in to a record fifth term by securing an unexpected power-sharing deal with his main opponent after three inconclusive elections in a year. He says the cases against him are a left-wing plot to unseat him.
Netanyahu was indicted in November in cases involving gifts from millionaire friends and for allegedly seeking regulatory favors for media tycoons in return for favorable coverage.
He appeared at Jerusalem District Court flanked by a clutch of cabinet ministers from his right-wing Likud party.
In the courtroom, Netanyahu and the judges wore face masks because of the coronavirus crisis. One of the judges asked Netanyahu whether he had read and understood the indictment. He replied: "Yes, your Honor."
The hearing lasted an hour. The court excused Netanyahu from appearing in person at the next hearing, set for July 19.
"These investigations were tainted and stitched-up from the first moment," Netanyahu said. "I am appearing here today, as your prime minister, standing tall and with head high," he said.
Bribery charges carry a sentence of up to 10 years in jail and/or a fine. Fraud and breach of trust carry a prison sentence of up to three years.
