Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to take the witness stand on Tuesday for the first time in his ongoing corruption trial, a major moment in the long-running legal battle that has shadowed his political career.

Netanyahu faces charges of fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes across three separate cases, allegations he vehemently denies. His testimony, however, marks a significant low point in his decades-long tenure, clashing with the image of a seasoned and respected leader he has cultivated.

The trial’s resumption comes at a critical time as Netanyahu manages the ongoing war in Gaza, oversees a delicate ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, and confronts escalating security concerns from regional powers, including Iran. Adding to his challenges is an international arrest warrant issued for alleged war crimes, further complicating his leadership on the global stage.

Netanyahu’s legal team had sought to delay proceedings, citing the pressing demands of war and national security. However, judges ruled the trial must continue as scheduled. For security reasons, the hearings will be held in an underground chamber of a Tel Aviv court.

This appearance marks the first time an Israeli prime minister will testify as a criminal defendant, a historic and politically charged development. Netanyahu’s inner circle is also grappling with separate scandals involving leaked classified information and falsified documents, though he is not directly implicated in those cases. These controversies risk further damaging his public standing.

Netanyahu’s court testimony comes as his leadership faces unprecedented scrutiny, balancing the demands of war, international diplomacy, and mounting legal challenges. The trial represents a pivotal chapter in his storied career, with potential ramifications for both his political future and Israel’s broader political landscape.