Dershowitz Advocates for Netanyahu’s Pardon Amid Ongoing Conflict
Alan Dershowitz, a Harvard Law Professor Emeritus, expressed support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s pardon during a recent appearance on Newsmax. He argued that the corruption allegations against Netanyahu should never have been filed.
President Donald Trump has urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to offer a pardon, noting the potential harm these charges could do to national unity amidst Israel’s complex war situations. During his interview on “The Record with Greta Van Susteren,” Dershowitz asserted that these charges are politically motivated and should not have been brought to trial, especially not in a time of war.
“Of course he should be pardoned. He should never have been indicted in the first place,” Dershowitz stated, explaining his legal consultations with Netanyahu on both domestic and international matters. He compared Netanyahu’s situation to Donald Trump’s legal troubles in New York.
Dershowitz brushed off claims that it was inappropriate for Trump to suggest a pardon, defending Herzog as a figure who represents all Israelis, irrespective of political affiliations.
“I understand why President Trump is sympathetic, too,” he said. “But the idea that a country would put a prime minister on trial while he’s fighting a five-front war is just ridiculous.” He mentioned that he had urged Israel’s attorney general to either drop the case or postpone it until the conflict was resolved. Unfortunately, the political landscape in both Israel and the U.S. often complicates matters of justice.
He also backed Trump’s request, emphasizing the integrity of Herzog, whom he has known for many years. “He’s a good guy,” Dershowitz noted. “Even though he has a past with the Labor Party, now he is the president for everyone. I expect him to take the right steps.” In a broader view, Dershowitz mentioned that it was a significant day for Palestinians and Israelis alike, contrasting that with the struggles faced by those opposed to Israel’s existence.
Dershowitz highlighted the release of the last 20 living Israeli hostages on the same day, part of a peace agreement negotiated by Trump aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas conflict. He described a poignant reunion between a hostaged individual and his girlfriend, which marked an emotional high point.
Meanwhile, in November 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, accusing him of war crimes in relation to Israel’s actions in Gaza. This puts Netanyahu in potential danger in the 124 nations that recognize the court’s authority, including some of Israel’s major allies.
President Herzog criticized the ICC’s decision as malicious and branded it a “dark day for justice.” The U.S., which does not acknowledge the Rome Statute, is unlikely to act against Netanyahu, and it remains to be seen if other Western countries will do the same.
