Trump urges Israel's president to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu

November 12, 2025

US President Donald Trump has sent a formal letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog requesting a full pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been on trial for five years facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Trump characterizes the prosecution as politically motivated and unjustified, while acknowledging his respect for Israel's independent justice system. Herzog's office responded diplomatically, noting that any pardon request must follow established procedures and be formally submitted by the accused or a close relative, which has not yet occurred.

Who is affected

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (defendant in the trial)
President Isaac Herzog (recipient of the pardon request)
US President Donald Trump (making the pardon request)
Israeli prosecutors and the justice system
Israeli citizens, particularly those on opposing political sides (right-wing supporters vs. left-wing/opposition)
Opposition leader Yair Lapid
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir
Netanyahu's Likud party members and supporters

What action is being taken

Netanyahu is standing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust
Trump has formally sent a letter to Herzog urging a pardon
Herzog's office is maintaining that formal pardon procedures must be followed
The trial proceedings are ongoing, with evidence being presented in court

Why it matters

This situation is significant because it represents potential foreign interference in Israel's domestic legal system and judicial independence. The case tests Israel's democratic institutions and rule of law, particularly following previous massive protests against judicial reforms that raised concerns about the erosion of democratic checks and balances. A pardon would be viewed by many Israelis, especially those on the left, as further weakening the country's legal system and democratic foundations, while supporters see the trial itself as politically motivated persecution of their leader.

What's next

Netanyahu or a close relative would need to formally submit a pardon request following established procedures
Herzog would need to consider any formal pardon request if submitted
The trial proceedings will continue unless a pardon is granted
Israeli media speculates that a formal pardon request could be forthcoming, though no public indication has been made

Read full article from source: BBC