Monday’s appearance was Netanyahu’s second in court since his corruption trial formally began in May.
Netanyahu, wearing a black mask, entered the court shortly after 9 am and stood up to confirm that the allegations of innocence, previously filed in writing by his lawyers, represented his response to the charges.
“I confirm the written answer submitted on my behalf,” the Prime Minister told the judges.
Netanyahu, who is the first Israeli prime minister to appear in court as a defendant, is charged in three separate cases.
In the most serious case, Netanyahu is accused of promoting regulatory benefits worth more than 1 billion shekels (more than $ 300 million) in favor of a telecommunications company controlled by a millionaire friend, prosecutors say. In return, Netanyahu received favorable coverage from a news site, even influencing the writing and selection of the story, prosecutors claim.
Monday’s court session is also discussing the trial schedule, particularly when the full evidence process is due to take place.
The Israelis vote in the general election six weeks from now, and in a possible indication of the prime minister’s desire to postpone the opening of the prosecution and the calling of witnesses, one of his most loyal allies asked the judges to postpone further hearings for later voting on March 23rd.
Allowing procedures to continue at this time would constitute “major interference in the electoral process by the judiciary,” Parliament Speaker Yariv Levin told Israel Hayom newspaper on Sunday.
Outside the courtroom, dozens of anti-Netanyahu protesters gathered, many carrying the now familiar “Minister of Crime” signs.
His supporters were also in large numbers, one carrying a banner saying, “You will never walk alone, Netanyahu.”
On Sunday night, the prime minister issued a statement asking followers to stay home due to the pandemic.
“I know you want to give me strength in the face of the sewn and fake cases against me. But we are in a time of mutation spreading around the world, even in Israel, so for your health I ask you – do not come tomorrow “, the statement said.
He continued in that statement to repeat his claim that his trial represents an attempted coup to remove him from office.
“Everyone understands that this is a transparent attempt to overthrow a powerful right-wing prime minister and thus create a left-wing government led by [opposition leader Yair] Lapid. “
Under Israeli law, Netanyahu does not need to resign, although he is now on trial. Only if he is convicted, and any conviction is upheld through the appeals process, will he be forced to resign.