President Donald Trump has formally requested that Israeli President Isaac Herzog grant a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently facing a corruption trial that began in 2020. Trump characterized Netanyahu as a strong wartime leader and suggested that the ongoing prosecution is politically motivated. This letter, sent on Wednesday, underscores Trump’s continuing influence in Israeli affairs and his support for Netanyahu amidst the legal challenges he faces.
In his correspondence, Trump stated, “I hereby call on you to fully pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been a formidable and decisive War Time Prime Minister, and is now leading Israel into a time of peace.” He described the charges against Netanyahu as a “political, unjustified prosecution” and urged Herzog to allow Netanyahu to unite the country by putting an end to what he termed “lawfare.”
Herzog’s office confirmed receipt of the letter and outlined the process for clemency in Israel. According to the president’s office, “anyone seeking a presidential pardon must submit a formal request in accordance with the established procedures.” This indicates that while Herzog has received Trump’s appeal, the path to a pardon remains governed by strict legal frameworks.
Netanyahu is currently on trial for three separate cases that include charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has claimed that the legal proceedings are an attempt to remove him from power. The situation has sparked significant debate within Israel, with discussions on whether a plea deal or a pardon could resolve the judicial saga that has enveloped the nation’s political landscape.
Legal experts in Israel have noted that requests for pardons are typically filed by the defendant or their immediate family, and such requests are rare while a case is still ongoing. The Times of Israel reported that Herzog has previously expressed a desire for Israelis to “move past” the divisions that have arisen from Netanyahu’s legal battles. However, he has yet to clarify how he would respond to any formal application for a pardon from the Prime Minister.
The correspondence from Trump adds another layer to the complex relationship between the United States and Israel, particularly regarding Netanyahu’s leadership and legal troubles. Trump’s support for Netanyahu has been consistent, reflecting their shared political ideologies and strategies during their respective tenures.
As the situation develops, the focus will remain on how Herzog navigates the political implications of any potential pardon and the ongoing ramifications for Israeli society.
