U.S. President Donald Trump drew widespread attention on Monday during a visit to Israel, publicly urging President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The remarks came amid a celebration marking the release of hostages from Gaza and the end of a two-year war between Israel and Hamas. Trump, addressing the Knesset in Jerusalem, described Netanyahu as “one of the greatest” wartime leaders and encouraged Herzog to grant him a pardon for long-standing fraud and bribery charges, drawing immediate applause from Netanyahu’s Likud supporters.
The call for a pardon, delivered during a historic moment of diplomatic significance, has sparked controversy in Israel. The legal cases against Netanyahu include allegations that he accepted expensive gifts, including cigars and Champagne, in exchange for political favors, as well as attempts to secure favorable media coverage. These charges date back several years, with some investigations starting as early as 2015. Netanyahu has consistently denied wrongdoing, framing the charges as politically motivated efforts by his opponents.
As reported by Politico, Netanyahu’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Trump’s statements. While Trump’s appeal was intended as support for a longtime ally, some political observers in Israel warned that a pardon without an admission of guilt could threaten the country’s judicial independence and escalate existing political tensions.
This Adds Another Layer To An Already Charged Moment
Trump’s intervention comes at a time when Israel is navigating the aftermath of a deadly conflict with Hamas, which saw hostages returned and humanitarian aid beginning to flow into Gaza. The President’s remarks highlighted his willingness to weigh in on foreign legal and political matters, prompting concern among those who view the pardon as a challenge to Israel’s rule of law.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has faced multiple investigations and trials over the years, including one case where more than 140 witnesses testified against him. Prosecutors allege he received gifts valued at over $260,000, exchanged for political favors, and attempted to negotiate favorable coverage from Israeli media outlets. Trump has repeatedly characterized the charges against Netanyahu as a politically motivated “witch hunt,” emphasizing the former prime minister’s service and leadership during wartime.
While the Knesset audience responded enthusiastically to Trump’s statements, political figures across Israel expressed caution. Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert noted that a pardon is traditionally contingent on an admission of guilt, which Netanyahu has consistently refused. Legal analysts have warned that any attempt to grant a pardon without proper legal procedure could provoke a constitutional challenge.
Trump’s remarks underscore the delicate balance between international diplomacy and domestic politics in Israel. As the region adjusts to the ceasefire and the broader implications of the peace deal, the President’s public appeal places additional scrutiny on both Israel’s political leadership and its legal institutions.
Published: Oct 13, 2025 03:08 pm