Netanyahu describes corruption charges against him as ‘ocean of absurdity’ at trial

Israeli prime minister criticises media and investigators and describes himself and his family as victims

A combative Benjamin Netanyahu has become the first Israeli prime minister to take the stand as the defendant in a criminal trial for corruption as he assailed the charges against him as an ocean of absurdity".

I have waited eight years for this moment, to say the truth as I remember it, which is important for justice," said Netanyahu, who was wearing a blue suit and white shirt, with a flag of Israel on one lapel and the yellow ribbon symbol of Israel's hostages in Gaza on the other.