Netanyahu Asks for Presidential Pardon Amid Ongoing Corruption Trial

Netanyahu Requests a Pardon to End His Ongoing Corruption Trial in Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally appealed to President Isaac Herzog for a pardon that would bring an end to his protracted corruption trial. According to several media reports, Netanyahu submitted the request on Sunday, citing what he described as “unprecedented political persecution” and “an exhausting judicial process” that has lasted for years.

Legal and Political Context

Netanyahu faces several charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, related to multiple corruption cases that have dominated Israeli politics for nearly a decade. He has continuously denied all allegations, asserting that the proceedings against him are politically motivated attempts to remove him from power.

The prime minister’s legal battles have run parallel to his leadership of the right-wing Likud party, which has remained a dominant force in Israel’s political sphere despite ongoing public protests and divisions within the coalition government. Analysts suggest that the pardon request could further deepen tensions between Netanyahu’s supporters and critics.

Presidential Response and Public Reaction

President Herzog has not yet issued an official response to the request. Under Israeli law, the president has the constitutional authority to grant pardons, though such decisions are rare in cases involving serving politicians. Opposition leaders have condemned the move, arguing that it would undermine the judicial system and the principle of equality before the law.

Several legal experts have stated that granting a pardon at this stage would be highly controversial. As Professor Yuval Shany of Hebrew University noted:

“A pardon given before a judicial verdict would break with Israeli legal precedent and could damage public trust in the rule of law.”

Netanyahu’s Statement

In a brief televised statement, Netanyahu reaffirmed his innocence, declaring:

“I have served the people of Israel with honesty and dedication for decades. I seek only justice.”

He added that the prolonged legal proceedings had taken a heavy toll on his family and the functioning of the government.

Author’s summary: Netanyahu has asked Israel’s president for a pardon to end his corruption trial, a move that has sparked political debate and concerns over the integrity of Israel’s legal system.

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The Associated Press on MSN The Associated Press on MSN — 2025-11-30

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