TEL AVIV: Israeli President Isaac Herzog received a letter from US President Donald Trump on Wednesday urging him to consider granting a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing a long-running corruption trial.
Trump described the trial as “a political, unjustified prosecution” and emphasized Netanyahu’s support for Israel in dealing with major challenges, including threats from Iran. Netanyahu denies all charges and has pleaded not guilty.
Read More: Israeli court rejects Netanyahu’s request to postpone corruption trial
Herzog’s office noted that anyone seeking a presidential pardon must follow established formal procedures. While largely ceremonial, the Israeli president does have the authority to grant pardons under exceptional circumstances.
During Trump’s visit to Israel last month, he also publicly urged Herzog to pardon Netanyahu in a parliamentary address. Netanyahu has been indicted in three separate cases since 2019, including allegations of receiving nearly 700,000 shekels (approximately $212,000) in gifts from businessmen.
Read More: Israel open to war-end deal, puts pressure back on Hamas
The letter from Trump adds pressure to an already politically charged environment in Israel, as debates over Netanyahu’s legal troubles continue alongside his political activities.