Tel aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in Tel Aviv's District Court on Tuesday to address charges in his ongoing corruption case.

According to Anadolu Agency, this session marked the 65th time Netanyahu has attended court in relation to charges, particularly those associated with Case 4000. In this case, he faces allegations of bribery involving Shaul Elovitch, a senior figure at the Bezeq telecommunications company.

The Maariv newspaper reported that Netanyahu and his family allegedly made demands of the Elovitch couple concerning the nature of coverage on the Walla news website. At the beginning of the court session, Netanyahu requested a 30-minute recess to participate in a missile attack drill via Zoom, which was noted by Maariv.

Reports from Israeli media suggest that Netanyahu uses political and security engagements, travel, and phone calls as strategies to delay court appearances. In December, he officially requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog, which has generated significant debate in Israel. Many are against granting a pardon unless Netanyahu acknowledges his guilt and steps back from his political career.

Despite the legal battles, Netanyahu has consistently denied all allegations. He has declared that he will not withdraw from politics, even if granted a pardon. His interrogation sessions in January covered corruption charges in cases known as 1000, 2000, and 4000, all of which he disputes.

Additionally, the Israeli leader is facing severe charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024, in connection with alleged atrocities in Gaza, where nearly 71,000 people, predominantly women and children, have been killed since October 2023.