Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the stand on Tuesday in his long-running corruption trial, marking the first time a sitting Israeli leader has testified as a criminal defendant. The proceedings, expected to last weeks, add to the embattled leader’s mounting challenges as he faces an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes and continues to navigate the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Netanyahu’s court appearance in Tel Aviv is a significant and controversial moment for the country, drawing attention to the legal troubles of a prime minister who has cultivated an image as a seasoned statesman.

Upon beginning his testimony, Netanyahu greeted the judges with a simple “hello.” One judge reminded him of his rights as a witness, allowing him the option to sit or stand.

“I waited eight years for this moment, to say the truth,” Netanyahu declared, standing at a podium before the packed courtroom. He described the charges against him as “an ocean of absurdness” and vowed to dismantle the prosecution’s case.

During his testimony, Netanyahu sought to present a more relatable image, sharing personal anecdotes. He admitted to smoking cigars but claimed he rarely finished them due to his workload and stated he disliked champagne—a pointed rebuttal to allegations involving gifts of luxury goods.

One case centers on Netanyahu allegedly accepting a steady supply of cigars and champagne from billionaire associates in return for personal favors. His lawyer requested that Netanyahu be allowed to receive notes during his testimony to help him continue managing state affairs.

Netanyahu faces charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery in three separate cases. He is accused of accepting tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of gifts from a Hollywood billionaire in exchange for advancing personal and business interests. Additionally, he is alleged to have promoted regulatory changes favorable to media moguls in return for positive coverage of himself and his family.

The 75-year-old leader has consistently denied the charges, labeling them a politically motivated “witch hunt” by biased legal and media establishments aimed at ending his lengthy rule.

Netanyahu’s testimony comes as his government contends with both domestic and international crises. The trial casts a shadow over his leadership during a critical time, with Israel facing scrutiny for its actions in Gaza and increasing political polarization at home.

As the trial progresses, Netanyahu’s testimony will be scrutinized not just in the courtroom but by a public grappling with the implications of his legal troubles on the country’s future.