Trump urges Israel to pardon Netanyahu amid corruption trial
Trump urges Israel to pardon Netanyahu amid corruption trial
Trump presses Israel to consider a pardon for Netanyahu as legal battles intensify, fueling debates over sovereignty, judicial independence, and foreign influence.
In a move that has stoked political fire across two capitals, former US President Donald Trump publicly urged Israel's president to consider pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Herzog's office says he holds Trump in high regard, but that anyone seeking a pardon must submit a formal request.
Behind the scenes, far-right security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Herzog to listen to Trump, saying Netanyahu's trial had become an indictment against the prosecution itself, with carelessness and crimes revealed in court daily. However, opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote that the first condition for a pardon is admission of guilt and remorse, adding that there comes a moment to tell themselves no to an American president and to assert sovereignty.
For Netanyahu through supporters, a pardon has long been sought since the trial began, while many on the left view it as another move away from a robust democracy with a strong legal system. Fears about judicial reforms driving protests were part of the backdrop before the Hamas attacks in 2023 that triggered a Gaza war.
With Trump sending a letter to Herzog according to media reports, Herzog’s office confirmed receipt and noted that the pardon process must follow established procedures. Netanyahu denies all allegations.
The episode has sparked a wider debate about foreign influence, sovereignty, and the integrity of Israel’s legal process, illustrating how a single appeal can roil politics in both Jerusalem and Washington.
Cover image source: Israel’s president says Trump asked him to pardon Netanyahu, who has not been convicted. 🔗
