Washington D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly intensified pressure on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges, according to Israeli media reports. The alleged pressure campaign has sparked debate within Israel regarding the separation of powers and the integrity of the legal system.
Reports indicate that Trump has engaged in direct communication with Herzog, including public statements and a formal letter, advocating for the dismissal of the legal proceedings against Netanyahu. This intervention is viewed by some as an attempt to influence Israeli domestic affairs and potentially undermine the judicial process.
In response to the reported pressure, President Herzog stated, “I respect President Trump, but Israel is a democratic state.” This statement suggests a commitment to upholding the rule of law and allowing the legal process to proceed without external interference.
Netanyahu, who is also wanted by the International Criminal Court on war crime allegations related to Gaza, submitted a request for a pardon to President Herzog last week concerning the corruption charges. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing since the start of his trial. Israeli law stipulates that a presidential pardon can only be granted after an admission of guilt.
Israeli media outlet Channel 12 reported that Trump’s efforts are part of a broader campaign, supported by figures on the Israeli right, to secure a pardon for Netanyahu. This campaign includes public appeals and pressure on Herzog to halt the corruption trial.
Herzog is reportedly considering various options for addressing Netanyahu’s pardon request, including the possibility of establishing a formal commission of inquiry into the October 7, 2023, attacks as part of a comprehensive settlement that could pave the way for a pardon. This proposal has drawn criticism from the Israeli opposition, who view it as a tactic to evade accountability for the government’s failures leading up to the attacks.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation.
