Donald Trump has plenty of influence in the world. But this has massive consequences.
Now President Trump announced a major pardon that could define his presidency.
Trump Formally Requests Pardon for Netanyahu Amid Ongoing Corruption Trial
President Donald Trump submitted a formal letter Wednesday to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, urging a full pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption charges that have drawn international attention and divided opinions in Israel.
Letter Highlights Netanyahu’s Leadership, Labels Case as “Political Prosecution”
In the letter, shared by Herzog’s office, Trump described Netanyahu as a “formidable and decisive” leader who has guided Israel through wartime challenges and toward peace.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu has stood tall for Israel in the face of strong adversaries and long odds, and his attention cannot be unnecessarily diverted,” reads the letter.
Trump expressed respect for Israel’s judicial independence but characterized the proceedings against Netanyahu as a “political, unjustified prosecution.”
Netanyahu is currently standing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in three separate corruption cases.
The trial, which began in 2020, marked the first time a sitting Israeli prime minister testified as a criminal defendant.
Trump concluded by calling for unity: “it is time to let Bibi unite Israel by pardoning him, and ending that lawfare once and for all.”
Herzog Acknowledges Request but Defers to Legal Process, Praises Trump’s Support
Herzog’s office released a statement emphasizing that pardon requests must follow established procedures, including a direct application from the individual seeking clemency, and did not indicate any immediate action.
The statement said that Herzog holds Trump in the “highest regard” and “continues to express his deep appreciation” for Trump’s support of Israel and his “tremendous” role in the return of hostages from Gaza.
This marks the second time Trump has publicly advocated for a pardon; he raised the issue during a speech to the Israeli Knesset last month.
