Trump Urges Pardon for Netanyahu, Herzog Disagrees

Former President Donald Trump reiterated his request for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be pardoned, but Israeli President Isaac Herzog quickly dismissed Trump’s statement suggesting a pardon was imminent.

While at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump praised Netanyahu as a “hero” deserving of a pardon related to his ongoing corruption trial.

When asked if Herzog would consider Netanyahu’s request, he responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I would. Why not do it? He is a wartime hero… How can you not give him a pardon? I think it would be very difficult not to do it.” Trump claimed to have spoken with Herzog, asserting that the pardon was “on the way,” adding, “You can’t do much more than that, can you?”

However, a report from New York Times clarified that Herzog’s office quickly denied that any decision had been reached, stating it was still weeks away.

In response to Trump’s remarks, Herzog’s office noted that there had been no contact with the former president since his officials made the request. Herzog had taken over from Netanyahu in mid-November.

In a letter addressed to Herzog, Trump characterized Netanyahu’s trial—stemming from a 2019 indictment—as a “political and unwarranted prosecution.” He expressed appreciation for their past relationship and emphasized the need for unity in Israel at this critical time.

Trump concluded his letter, encouraging Herzog to grant the pardon to “end his legal actions once and for all,” emphasizing the importance of their continued success in the region.

Herzog’s office acknowledged the receipt of Trump’s letter and expressed respect for the former president while noting that any pardon requests must adhere to formal procedures. Such requests typically require submission from the individual or their next of kin after legal processes have been finalized.

Netanyahu had previously submitted his own request on November 30, arguing that the legal proceedings were disrupting governance during a significant period for the nation. He is facing charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, making him the first serving prime minister in Israeli history to stand trial.

For further details on the accusations against Netanyahu, additional information is available.