Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial commenced with his testimony in Tel Aviv, where he rejected allegations of bribery and fraud as politically motivated. After four hours on the stand, he resumes on Wednesday, amid significant security tensions including an ongoing conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu, accused of accepting luxury gifts and favorable media coverage for regulatory favors, labeled the charges as an 'ocean of absurdity.' His trial is set against a backdrop of political polarization and ongoing scrutiny of his leadership during a complex security situation.