Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to make history as the first sitting Israeli prime minister to testify in his own corruption trial on December 10, marking a critical moment in a case that has stretched over seven years since investigations began.

"I came to back the Prime Minister," declared National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who arrived at the court to observe the proceedings.

The trial's resumption following a summer recess encompasses three distinct cases. In Case 1000, Netanyahu allegedly received luxury gifts worth approximately NIS 451,702 ($128,100) in cigars and champagne from billionaire Arnon Milchan between 2011 and 2016, with additional gifts valued at NIS229,174 ($65,000) from Australian billionaire James Packer. Prosecutors claim Netanyahu sought to assist Milchan with visa and tax-related matters in return.

Case 2000 centres on alleged discussions between Netanyahu and Yediot Aharonot newspaper publisher Arnon Mozes in 2014, where favourable coverage was allegedly discussed in exchange for potential legislation to weaken rival newspaper Israel Hayom.

While the discussion allegedly occurred, Netanyahu is not accused of implementing the arrangement. Mozes, who is also on trial, maintains his innocence.

The most complex allegation, Case 4000, involves telecommunications mogul Shaul Elovitch and his wife Iris, who allegedly granted favours to Netanyahu and his family between 2012 and 2017, particularly through manipulated coverage on their Walla news website.

Prosecutors claim this was in exchange for Netanyahu's non-interference in Elovitch's business interests, including a merger between Israeli telecommunications giant Bezeq and satellite television provider Yes.

The trial's timing coincides with significant regional upheaval, as Israel conducts extensive military operations in Syria following the collapse of Assad's government.

Israel has conducted one of its largest air and ground operations in history, striking more than 250 military targets across Syria over the past 48 hours following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's government, Israeli military radio Galei Tzahal reported on December 9.

The prolonged nature of the legal proceedings has drawn criticism from observers who argue the court should have expedited the case to minimise its divisive impact on Israeli society.

Netanyahu's defence team, led by lawyer Amit Hadad, will begin questioning him today, opening a new phase in this unprecedented legal challenge to Israel's leadership.