🇮🇱 A Bold Appeal From Israel’s Longest-Serving Leader
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a presidential pardon from President Isaac Herzog, seeking relief from the corruption cases that have shadowed him for years.
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| 🔥 Netanyahu’s Pardon Request Shakes Israel’s Political Landscape |
Herzog’s office confirmed the request, noting that it will consult legal experts before making a decision due to the “significant national implications” involved.
Netanyahu has been on trial for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust across three separate cases—charges he strongly denies.
🎥 Netanyahu: “National Interest Comes First”
In a video statement, Netanyahu said he would have preferred to see the trial through, but claimed the country’s stability required a different path.
He insisted that the legal proceedings are “tearing Israel apart”, arguing that ending the trial could help lower tensions and restore unity.
The opposition, however, said he should not be pardoned unless he admits guilt, expresses remorse, and exits politics altogether.
🇺🇸 International Pressure: Trump Weighs In
Earlier this month, former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged Herzog to “fully pardon” Netanyahu.
Herzog responded that any pardon requires a formal application, which Netanyahu has now submitted.
The president’s office gave no timeline for a final decision.
📌 A Breakdown of the Cases Against Netanyahu
Case 1: Luxury Gifts for Favors
Prosecutors say Netanyahu received cigars, champagne, and other gifts from wealthy businessmen in exchange for political advantages.
Case 2: Media Influence Deal
He allegedly offered support for improving a newspaper’s circulation in return for flattering news coverage.
Case 3: Telecom Regulation for Positive Coverage
Prosecutors claim he pushed regulatory benefits for a telecom mogul in exchange for favorable reporting on a news site.
Netanyahu insists all accusations are fabricated, calling the trial a “witch hunt” driven by political enemies.
🔥 Netanyahu Says the Case Is “Collapsing”
In his recent message, the prime minister said prosecution arguments are falling apart but that being summoned to testify three times a week is “impossible” for someone leading a nation facing major threats.
He argued that a pardon would allow Israel to focus on security challenges and build national unity.
⚔️ Opposition: “Only the Guilty Seek a Pardon”
Opposition leader Yair Lapid said no pardon should be considered without:
- A confession
- An apology
- Netanyahu leaving politics permanently
Former military official Yair Golan added that “only the guilty” pursue presidential clemency.
⚖️ What Israel’s Law Says About Pardons
Israel’s Basic Law grants the president broad power to pardon, reduce, or alter sentences.
The High Court has also ruled that pardons can be granted even before conviction in special circumstances or for the public good.
Netanyahu’s supporters argue this situation fits those conditions.
Many critics, especially on the left, fear a pardon would weaken Israel’s legal system and undermine democratic accountability.
🌍 Wider Concerns: Judicial Reform & ICC Pressure
Israel has been deeply divided over government judicial reforms, which sparked mass protests before the 2023 Hamas attacks shifted national focus.
Separately, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in the Gaza conflict—charges Netanyahu called “antisemitic”.
❓ What’s Your Take?
Should Israel’s president grant Netanyahu a pardon—or would it damage trust in the country’s justice system?