Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will testify in his corruption trial for the first time on Tuesday. The trial, which began in 2020, alleges fraud and bribery related to media deals.

This legal action unfolds against a backdrop of multiple regional conflicts, including ongoing tensions with Iran and its proxies, and the recent fall of a regime.

Prosecutors allege Netanyahu traded regulatory favors for positive media coverage through undisclosed arrangements with media executives.

Approximately 140 witnesses, including former prime ministers, security officials, and media figures, have already testified, fewer than the initially anticipated 300.

While Netanyahu and his wife have been questioned by police, Tuesday marks his first appearance as a witness. His testimony is anticipated to span several weeks, with sessions three days a week.

Despite repeated attempts by the defense, delays to his testimony have been unsuccessful. Critics allege Netanyahu has prolonged, even escalated, the conflict with Hamas to impede legal proceedings. The prosecution concluded its case in July, with a verdict not expected before 2026, subject to potential appeals.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu enjoys increased international support regarding separate International Criminal Court (ICC) charges. There’s a growing defense of him amidst war crimes allegations. The Pentagon has firmly rejected the ICC’s arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

“We remain concerned by the prosecutor’s rush to seek arrest warrants, and, you know, some of the processes that have played out,” Deputy Pentagon press secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters in November. “And again, we’ve been very clear that the ICC does not have jurisdiction over this matter.”

Several prominent senators have indicated their support for sanctions against the ICC following the issuance of the arrest warrants.