Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu asks for pardon in ongoing corruption case

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally asked President Isaac Herzog to grant him a pardon as his long-running corruption trial continues. Netanyahu is currently facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, making him the only sitting Israeli prime minister to go on trial.

In a televised address, Netanyahu argued that ending the five-year trial is now “in the public interest.” He said the ongoing court case is creating deep divisions in the country and affecting his ability to govern effectively. According to him, Israel is facing major challenges, and the nation needs unity to overcome them.

Netanyahu explained that although proving his innocence is important to him personally, the continuation of the trial is tearing Israelis apart. He said attending court three times every week distracts him from leading the country at a critical time. He believes ending the trial immediately would help reduce political tension and bring some national reconciliation.

His request comes just weeks after former U.S. President Donald Trump also asked Israel’s president to pardon him in a separate matter. The move has added to intense political debate in Israel.

Critics say Netanyahu is trying to escape justice and claim that he is prolonging the Gaza war to keep his political coalition together and remain in power. They argue that seeking a pardon before a conviction is an attempt to avoid accountability.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid strongly rejected the idea of a pardon. In a video message, he urged President Herzog not to consider it unless Netanyahu openly admits guilt, shows remorse, and resigns from political life. Lapid said granting a pardon without these steps would damage the rule of law.

The president’s office has described Netanyahu’s request as unusual and very significant. The request has been forwarded to the Justice Ministry’s pardons department for review. President Herzog said he will examine the matter seriously once he receives all the expert opinions required.

In Israel, presidential pardons are rare and almost never granted before a person is convicted. This makes Netanyahu’s request even more controversial and historically important.

As the nation waits for the president’s decision, the political atmosphere remains tense, with supporters and critics of Netanyahu sharply divided over whether the trial should continue or be brought to an early end.