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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a presidential pardon in his long-running corruption case, arguing that the trial is undermining his ability to lead the country effectively. Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, denies charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. His legal team maintains he will ultimately be fully acquitted but insists the ongoing proceedings have become a national burden.
In a video released by his Likud party, Netanyahu urged Israelis to support the move, saying the legal process has placed unreasonable demands on him, including testifying multiple times a week while managing state affairs. His lawyers argued that ending the trial would help ease political divisions and promote national unity.
The request, described as “extraordinary” by President Isaac Herzog’s office, will now be reviewed by the Justice Ministry’s pardons department. Traditionally, Israeli presidents consider pardons only after a conviction, but Netanyahu’s legal team claims the president has authority to intervene earlier when public interest is at stake. Herzog will evaluate recommendations provided by his legal advisers before making a decision.
The move has reignited fierce debate across Israel’s political landscape. Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the request, arguing that no pardon should be granted without Netanyahu admitting guilt, expressing remorse, and stepping away from political life. Other opposition figures, such as Yair Golan, urged the president to reject the appeal and called for Netanyahu’s resignation.
Meanwhile, coalition partners including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich voiced firm support for the prime minister.
Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 over allegations that he provided benefits to influential business figures in exchange for lavish gifts and favorable media coverage. The cases remain some of the most divisive in Israel’s political history, further intensified by the aftermath of Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack and the ensuing Gaza war, which has drawn global criticism for its humanitarian toll.
As the next Israeli election approaches in 2026, polls suggest Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition may face major challenges—making the outcome of this pardon request even more consequential for Israel’s political future.
