Netanyahu testifies as trial resumes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared at the Tel Aviv District Court to testify in his ongoing corruption trial, marking his first court appearance since the military conflict with Iran. Netanyahu, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty, is facing multiple corruption charges related to allegations of receiving gifts from wealthy friends and seeking regulatory favors from media tycoons in exchange for favorable coverage.

At 75, Netanyahu is the first sitting prime minister in Israel to be charged with a crime. His trial, which began in May 2020, has seen him appear in court numerous times, with the most recent sessions postponed due to national security concerns linked to developments in Gaza and Iran. The trial resumed after a two-week delay, which Netanyahu requested, supported by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who labeled the proceedings a "political witch hunt."

During the latest hearing, Netanyahu responded to questions about luxury gifts, including cigars, champagne, and jewelry, as well as the alleged media favors he sought. He has described the charges as "absurd" and part of a political conspiracy against him. The court has mandated that Netanyahu testify three times a week, with hearings expected to continue until May 2025, and no verdict is anticipated before 2026. His attempts to delay the trial, citing security priorities, have drawn criticism from political opponents.

This is while the Israeli military said the missile had intended to hit an Islamic Jihad militant in the area but that a malfunction had caused it to fall dozens of meters from the target.

"The IDF regrets any harm to uninvolved civilians," it said in a statement, adding that the incident was under review.

The strike hit a water distribution point in Nuseirat refugee camp, killing six children and injuring 17 others, said Ahmed Abu Saifan, an emergency physician at Al-Awda Hospital.

Water shortages in Gaza have worsened sharply in recent weeks.