US President Donald Trump has called on the Israeli president to grant a full pardon to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his ongoing corruption trial.
In a letter distributed by the Israeli presidential press secretary, President Trump wrote: “We hereby ask for a full pardon for Benjamin Netanyahu, a formidable and decisive wartime prime minister who is now leading Israel into an era of peace. That includes continued cooperation with key leaders in the Middle East to add more countries to the world-changing Abraham Accords.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu faces charges of fraud, bribery and breach of trust in three separate cases that began during Trump’s first term. He has pleaded not guilty and maintains his innocence. Prime Minister Netanyahu is currently testifying in court as part of the trial.
“While I fully respect the independence of the Israeli judicial system and its requirements, I believe that the ‘litigation’ against Mr. Bibi, who has fought alongside me for many years, including against Israel’s most powerful adversary, Iran, is a political and unwarranted prosecution,” Trump said in the letter.
Herzog’s office said in a statement that it has “high regard” for Trump and appreciates his “unwavering support for Israel, his significant contributions to the return of hostages, the transformation of the Middle East and Gaza, and ensuring Israel’s security.”
But Herzog’s office also said that “those seeking clemency must submit their applications according to established procedures.” Prime Minister Netanyahu has not submitted a formal request for clemency in his ongoing trial.
