US President Trump has written a letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, requesting a pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Herzog’s office confirmed the letter on Wednesday.
Netanyahu is facing three ongoing corruption trials, including allegations of receiving nearly 700,000 shekels ($211,832) in gifts from businessmen. The prime minister denies all charges and pleaded not guilty. His trial, which began in 2020, has yet to conclude.
In the letter, Trump stated he respects Israel’s independent justice system but described the cases against Netanyahu as “political” and “unjustified.” He highlighted Netanyahu’s long-standing alliance with him, including efforts to counter regional threats like Iran.
Herzog’s office clarified that anyone seeking a presidential pardon must submit a formal request according to legal procedures. While largely ceremonial, the Israeli presidency does have the authority to grant pardons in exceptional circumstances.
This is not the first time Trump has advocated for Netanyahu. During his visit to Israel in October, he urged Herzog to pardon the prime minister while addressing the parliament in Jerusalem.
Netanyahu has portrayed his legal troubles as a politically motivated attack by left-wing opponents aiming to remove a democratically elected right-wing leader. Trump’s intervention underscores the close personal and political relationship between him and Netanyahu, attracting international attention.
Legal experts say a presidential pardon in Israel is rare and could set a significant precedent. Any decision by Herzog will be closely monitored by media, political analysts, and international observers.
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The situation highlights the intersection of international diplomacy, domestic politics, and judicial processes in Israel, while emphasizing the continuing influence of Trump on global political matters.
