Netanyahu's trial to begin on March 17

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial will start on March 17, the Justice Ministry said on Tuesday. In a statement, the ministry said Netanyahu will be required to be in Jerusalem District Court for the first session to hear an indictment against him.

A three-judge panel will hear the case. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing in three corruption cases. Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing regulatory favors in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website. He could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.