Benjamin Netanyahu seeks pardon from Israel's president

November 30, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog regarding corruption charges he has faced for five years, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust allegations across three separate cases. While Netanyahu maintains his innocence and calls the proceedings a politically-motivated witch hunt, he argues that ending the trial would promote national unity and allow him to focus on threats facing Israel. Opposition leaders insist any pardon must be accompanied by a guilty admission, remorse, and Netanyahu's resignation from politics, viewing the request as prioritizing personal interests over democratic principles.

Who is affected

Benjamin Netanyahu (Israeli Prime Minister facing corruption charges)
President Isaac Herzog (who must decide on the pardon request)
Israeli opposition leaders including Yair Lapid and Yair Golan
Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party and supporters
Israeli citizens, particularly those concerned about democratic institutions
Justice officials who will advise the president
Yoav Gallant (former Israeli defense minister also facing ICC charges)

What action is being taken

Netanyahu is standing trial on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust
Netanyahu is testifying before court three times a week
President Herzog is receiving opinions from justice officials before considering the pardon request
Netanyahu's opponents are publicly criticizing the pardon request

Why it matters

This situation holds profound significance for Israeli democracy and the rule of law, as it tests whether a sitting prime minister can receive a pardon without conviction or admission of guilt. The decision carries implications for Israel's legal system integrity and public perception of governmental accountability, particularly following mass protests over judicial reform proposals that previously mobilized hundreds of thousands of citizens. The outcome could set a precedent regarding the balance between political leadership needs and democratic principles in Israel.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC