Trump Calls for Pardon of Netanyahu During Congressional Speech

During a speech to Congress on Monday, President Donald Trump unexpectedly requested that Israeli President Isaac Herzog pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces bribery charges. This appeal reportedly resonated well with the Israeli parliament.

“Hey, I have an idea. Mr. President, why don’t you pardon him? Please pardon him,” Trump said, prompting applause and cheers of “Bibi, Bibi!” from the audience.

“By the way, that wasn’t in the speech, but as you know, I happen to like this gentleman here,” he added. Trump expressed admiration for Netanyahu, calling him one of the greatest wartime leaders, even dismissing issues like cigars and champagne as irrelevant.

Back in June, Trump suggested that Israel should drop the corruption charges against Netanyahu, who has faced minor accusations related to accepting gifts from friends. Supporters argue these charges are politically motivated, and even a judge previously hinted that some could be dismissed.

Despite the intense circumstances, including wartime, Netanyahu was compelled to testify. Critics of the prime minister argue that the ongoing trial exemplifies accountability under the law in Israel.

Trump’s request for a pardon came following Netanyahu’s role in securing a preliminary peace agreement between Israel and Hamas. “It should be clear to everyone in the region that decades of promoting terrorism and extremism have been disastrous,” Trump stated, emphasizing that it has only led to suffering.

The remaining Israeli hostages, part of a peace deal with Hamas, were reunited with their families on Monday, coinciding with Trump’s address to the Israeli parliament.