Trump Seeks Pardon for Netanyahu in 'Historic' Bid for Israeli Leader's Freedom
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US President Donald Trump has written to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, urging him to consider granting a full pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing a long-running corruption trial. In a letter sent on Wednesday, Trump acknowledged Israel's independent justice system but described the case against Netanyahu as a 'political, unjustified prosecution.' Trump praised Netanyahu as a 'formidable' wartime leader who has fought against Israel's adversaries, including Iran. The US President's appeal comes at a time when he and Herzog have secured a historic peace deal, which Trump believes is a significant achievement. However, the Israeli government has yet to respond to the charges against Netanyahu, who has pleaded not guilty to accepting over $260,000 worth of luxury goods from billionaires in exchange for favors. Herzog's office responded to Trump's request, stating that the Israeli President holds Trump in high regard and appreciates his support for Israel. However, they also clarified that any request for a pardon must be submitted through established procedures. This is not the first time Trump has intervened on Netanyahu's behalf. During his visit to Israel in October, he urged Herzog to pardon Netanyahu, while dismissing the charges as insignificant. Netanyahu has been a key figure in Israel's judicial reform debate, which sparked massive protests earlier this year.
