Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Nov 12: US President Donald Trump has written to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, urging him to consider granting a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently facing three corruption trials, the Israeli Presidency confirmed on Wednesday.

In a statement, Herzog’s office said, “This morning, President Isaac Herzog received a letter from US President Donald Trump, calling on him to consider granting a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.” The office added that anyone seeking a Presidential pardon must follow formal legal procedures, and no such request has been filed so far.

Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 on charges of corruption, bribery, and breach of trust, accused of accepting gifts worth around 700,000 shekels (US $211,000) from wealthy businessmen. He has denied all allegations, calling them politically motivated.

In his letter, Trump reportedly described the proceedings against Netanyahu as “a political, unjustified prosecution,” reflecting his continued support for the Israeli leader and their shared hardline stance on Iran.

Although the Israeli presidency is largely ceremonial, Herzog retains the constitutional authority to issue pardons in special cases. However, legal experts say that no pardon can be considered until a formal application is made by Netanyahu or his representatives.