Former President Donald Trump has recently reached out to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, suggesting that Herzog should consider a pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu is currently embroiled in three corruption trials, facing serious allegations including bribery and breach of trust. Trump characterized the legal proceedings as politically motivated and unjustified, articulating his sentiments in a letter to Herzog. The Israeli presidential office acknowledged receipt of Trump’s correspondence, emphasizing that any request for a pardon must follow specific procedural guidelines. Netanyahu, who was indicted in 2019 for allegedly accepting expensive gifts from businessmen amounting to around 700,000 shekels (approximately $211,000), has consistently denied all wrongdoing, proclaiming his innocence in the face of these charges. Trump's letter highlights the long-standing relationship between him and Netanyahu, noting Netanyahu's opposition to Iran as a significant point of alignment. Although Herzog's role is largely ceremonial, he does possess the constitutional power to grant pardons under unusual circumstances. However, as of now, there has been no formal request for a pardon submitted by Netanyahu himself. This ongoing political drama continues to attract significant attention both locally and internationally.
Trump Advocates for Netanyahu's Pardon Amid Ongoing Corruption Trial
The Times of India •
Image source: The Times of India website
Former President Donald Trump has urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to consider pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing corruption charges. Trump called the prosecution politically motivated and unjust. While Herzog's office confirmed receipt of Trump's letter, it stated that any formal pardon request must adhere to established procedures. Netanyahu denies all allegations against him. The situation remains complex, with Herzog having the authority to grant a pardon under certain conditions, yet no formal request has been made by Netanyahu.