Israel Politics

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally asked President Isaac Herzog for a pardon during his long-running corruption trial, submitting two documents — a detailed letter from his lawyer and a separate letter signed by Netanyahu — an "extraordinary request" that will be routed through the President’s Office legal department, the Justice Ministry for opinions, and the president’s legal adviser before a decision. Legal experts note a pardon request cannot itself halt the trial and is typically considered after legal proceedings are exhausted; the move prompted public criticism and small protests outside Herzog’s home, opposition calls for an admission of guilt and retirement, and support from former U.S. President Donald Trump, whom Netanyahu reportedly asked for additional help.