In a statement that underscores the tension between diplomatic relationships and judicial independence, Israeli President Isaac Herzog declared Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s pardon request remains under legal review, dismissing any suggestion that he has yielded to pressure from Donald Trump or other sources.
The presidential office’s announcement came as a direct response to Trump’s inflammatory comments at a White House press conference, where he characterized Herzog as “disgraceful” for not immediately granting Netanyahu clemency. Herzog’s team stressed that the standard legal process is being followed, with the Ministry of Justice currently preparing a formal legal opinion on the pardon application.
Trump’s public rebuke of Herzog represents an unusual instance of one nation’s leader openly criticizing another’s handling of domestic legal matters. During Netanyahu’s Washington visit for bilateral talks, Trump told reporters that Herzog should face public shame for his approach to the pardon request, suggesting that ordinary Israelis should pressure their president to act more favorably toward Netanyahu.
The criminal cases against Netanyahu paint a picture of alleged systematic corruption at the highest levels of Israeli government. Prosecutors have built cases around claims that Netanyahu used his position to secure favorable media coverage through backroom deals with news executives. Additionally, he faces accusations of accepting extravagant gifts—including expensive cigars, champagne, and jewelry—from billionaire supporters who allegedly received government benefits in return.
Netanyahu’s legal troubles have redefined the Israeli political landscape since charges were first filed in 2019. As the first incumbent prime minister to face criminal prosecution, he has consistently framed the proceedings as a witch hunt orchestrated by political opponents. Despite a fourth charge being dismissed, three serious cases continue through the courts. The formal pardon request was submitted to Herzog’s office following Trump’s direct appeal to the Israeli parliament, where he publicly advocated for Netanyahu’s exoneration.
Israeli President Herzog Asserts Judicial Independence Amid Trump’s Netanyahu Pardon Demands
