Tsionizm
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has decided against issuing a presidential pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at this time, opting instead to mediate a plea deal aimed at resolving the long-running corruption trial that has gripped the country for years. According to officials with direct knowledge of the matter, Herzog views a negotiated resolution as a more appropriate path forward, one that could foster national unity without the precedent-setting implications of a pardon while the trial is ongoing. His office confirmed that he sees “reaching a plea deal between the parties in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s cases as a proper and correct solution,” emphasizing the need to exhaust negotiations outside the courtroom, reported NYT.
Netanyahu formally requested the pardon from Herzog in November 2025, arguing that the trial — which has required his frequent court appearances — was dividing Israeli society and hindering his ability to focus on pressing national security matters, including ongoing regional threats. He framed the move as serving the “national interest,” a position supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, who repeatedly urged Herzog to grant clemency. The Justice Ministry’s pardons department had recommended against the pardon, describing it as highly problematic and unprecedented given that Netanyahu has not admitted guilt or expressed remorse. Herzog’s office had requested additional materials from the ministry as recently as late March 2026 amid intense political pressure.
Background on the Trial
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in three cases stemming from allegations dating back years. The trial, which began in 2020, has seen delays due to the premier’s other responsibilities and major events including the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks and subsequent wars. Netanyahu has consistently denied all wrongdoing, maintaining that the cases are politically motivated, reported The Times of Israel.
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Israeli President Isaac Herzog Declines To Grant Pardon To Netanyahu, Pushes For Mediated Plea Deal In Corruption Trial | Read Full Article Here…
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