Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog amid his lengthy corruption trial, marking a key moment in Israeli politics and law.
After five years facing bribery, fraud, and breach of trust charges, which he denies, Netanyahu has asked for clemency to help bring an end to the divisive legal battle.
Herzog’s office confirmed receipt of the pardon application, including a letter from Netanyahu. The president will consult legal advisers before deciding. Although pardons usually follow convictions in Israel, pre-conviction pardons can be granted if public interest or exceptional circumstances apply, which Netanyahu’s team claims, citing the need for national unity and stability.
Netanyahu highlighted the strain his ongoing trial places on the country, saying, “The trial tears us apart from within” and that frequent court appearances hinder his leadership during critical times. His appeal followed public calls from U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged Herzog to grant Netanyahu a full pardon, dismissing the charges as politically motivated.
The allegations against Netanyahu include accepting expensive gifts from wealthy businessmen, attempting to influence media coverage for favourable reporting, and promoting regulatory decisions benefiting a telecom magnate in exchange for positive news exposure. Netanyahu calls the trial a “witch-hunt” and refutes all accusations.
Support for the pardon is strong within Netanyahu’s Likud party, but many Israelis, particularly on the left, view it as a threat to democratic principles and judicial independence. Public concern over these issues sparked large protests against judicial reforms prior to the escalation of conflict in October 2023.
The decision now rests with President Herzog, who must balance legal advice, public opinion, and the nation’s stability when ruling on this unprecedented request from a sitting prime minister.