Donald Trump urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently on trial for corruption, fraud, and breach of trust.
Eko Hot News reports that in a letter shared by Herzog’s office, Trump described Netanyahu as a “formidable and decisive” leader who has guided Israel “through war and toward peace.” Trump urged Herzog to issue a full pardon, arguing that Netanyahu’s attention “cannot be unnecessarily diverted” during a time of national crisis.
“While I absolutely respect the independence of Israel’s judicial system, it is clear that the case against Prime Minister Netanyahu is a political, unjustified prosecution,” Trump wrote. “It is time to let Bibi unite Israel by pardoning him and ending that lawfare once and for all.”
Herzog’s office confirmed receipt of the letter but emphasized that any pardon request must follow the proper legal process. Under Israeli law, a formal petition must be made by the person seeking clemency before it can be considered.
Netanyahu, who denies all wrongdoing, is the first sitting Israeli prime minister to stand trial on criminal charges. The trial, which began in 2020, involves three separate cases alleging bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.
Trump, a longtime ally of Netanyahu, also called for his pardon during a recent speech in the Israeli Knesset.
