Donald Trump has formally requested that Israel’s President Isaac Herzog pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently on trial for corruption. Trump’s letter asserts that the charges against Netanyahu are a “political” and “unjustified prosecution.” This move by the former US president, following similar calls during a recent visit to Israel, intensifies scrutiny over potential undue American interference in Israeli domestic affairs.
The corruption case has deeply divided Israeli society. Benjamin Netanyahu is the sole sitting prime minister in the nation’s history to undergo a trial, facing allegations of bribery and fraud stemming from dealings with influential associates. He strongly refutes these claims, characterizing the legal battle as politically motivated.
Following Trump’s intervention, Netanyahu posted on social media, expressing his gratitude for Trump’s “incredible support” and his clear-sightedness. President Herzog acknowledged the letter but indicated that any pardon request would need to follow official procedures. While Herzog has previously voiced his desire for the trial to conclude and for a resolution to be found, he has not committed to a specific course of action regarding a potential Netanyahu petition. Concerns about US influence have also surfaced in relation to discussions about the Gaza Strip, with some Israeli media labeling visits by US officials as “Bibi-sitting.”