Netanyahu convinced he won 98-day testimony ordeal, source says

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not return to the witness stand, ending his 98-day testimony marathon in his corruption trial, Israeli media report. His associates say Netanyahu believes the prosecution failed to corner him and that the lengthy process has politically strengthened him.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has concluded his marathon testimony in his corruption trial after 98 court sessions over roughly 18 months, Israeli media report. His office stated that the prime minister will no longer appear on the witness stand, framing the conclusion as a vindication: 'How many more lies can they squeeze?' according to a source cited by the C14 channel. Netanyahu's associates assessed that the long testimony, which began in late 2024, failed to produce a breakthrough for the prosecution and may have actually fortified the prime minister's standing with his base.

As The Zioneer reported earlier today (Wednesday, 11:44 Jerusalem), the defense had signaled that the testimony would end this week. The trial itself continues with witness testimony from other figures. The length and intensity of Netanyahu's cross-examination — spanning 98 days across 18 months — is unprecedented for an Israeli sitting prime minister. Legal analysts have noted that the prosecution's strategy relied on detailed financial and communications records, but the defense argued that the marathon hearings reflected a lack of a smoking gun.

The proceedings now move to the next phase, with the court hearing additional prosecution witnesses. A verdict is not expected for many months. The political implications are immediate, however: Netanyahu's coalition allies have already framed the end of his testimony as a moral victory, and opposition figures are demanding the trial accelerate.

5 developments

1. 3 hours ago · 12:38 · 24 JunLatest

   Netanyahu's testimony concluded after a total of 98 sessions

2. 12:27 · 24 Jun

   Netanyahu denounced the trial as a 'vile' 10-year 'hell' in closing remarks.

3. 12:00 · 24 Jun

   Netanyahu's testimony officially concludes after 98 days and a year and a half.

• Strong10:15 · 9 JunNetanyahu's testimony scheduled to end today at 14:00
• Developingyesterday · 09:48 · 23 JunNetanyahu's testimony begins; defense lawyers avoid committing to timeline
• Developing2 days ago · 13:59 · 22 JunNetanyahu defense re-cross-examination in Case 2000 concludes for the day
• Strong14:58 · 16 JunNetanyahu blasts prosecution in closing cross-examination: 'You will spend your lives in court'

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