US President Donald Trump has called for a "full pardon" of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently on trial for corruption, in a letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog dated Nov. 12. The move has sparked controversy within Israel.
In his letter, Trump asserted his "absolute respect" for the independence of Israel's judicial system while simultaneously claiming that the cases against Netanyahu are "politically motivated and completely unfounded." The Israeli President's Office stated in a response that anyone seeking a presidential pardon "must formally apply according to established procedures." President Herzog had not personally responded by the evening.
According to *The Times of Israel*, the Israeli president holds the power to pardon individuals convicted by courts. In rare circumstances, pardons can be granted before legal proceedings conclude if it serves the public interest, but such a pardon must be requested by the individual seeking it or their immediate family. Netanyahu and his relatives have not yet applied.
Trump's "appeal" was welcomed by members of the governing coalition led by Netanyahu. Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir issued a statement saying a pardon for Netanyahu was "both justified and urgent," and urgedIsaac Herzog to "listen to Trump."
Conversely, Israeli opposition lawmakers accused Netanyahu of attempting to use Trump to escape his "legal troubles." Yair Golan, leader of the Democratic Party, stated that while Netanyahu claims the charges are baseless, he is simultaneously "begging Trump to help him get a pardon." Golan suggested that if Netanyahu cannot simultaneously govern the country and handle his trial, he should "resign voluntarily."
Netanyahu was formally charged with bribery, fraud, and breach of trust by Israeli prosecutors in early 2020. The trial began in May of that year, making him the first sitting Israeli prime minister to face trial. On Dec. 10, 2024, Netanyahu testified in court for the first time regarding the corruption allegations.
The case alleges that Netanyahu and his family received cigars, champagne, jewelry, and other items worth approximately US$280,000 from Israeli businessman and Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan between 2007 and 2016. In return, Netanyahu is accused of providing benefits to Milchan directly or indirectly.
Israeli media have previously reported that since the trial began in 2020, Netanyahu has repeatedly sought postponements, citing reasons such as military conflicts, foreign visits, and health issues. Since June this year, Trump has repeatedly pressured Israel publicly to drop the proceedings against Netanyahu. If convicted, Netanyahu could face a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for bribery and a combined 3 years for fraud and breach of trust.
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