Israeli President Isaac Herzog rejected calls from former US President Donald Trump to pardon Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, affirming his respect for the independence of the Israeli judiciary and the sovereignty of the state.
Herzog clarified in statements to the “Politico” website published last Saturday that he appreciates Trump's friendship and his efforts in securing the release of hostages from the Gaza Strip, but stressed that Israel is a sovereign state and its legal system must be fully respected. These statements come after Trump repeatedly urged Herzog to grant Netanyahu a pardon, including in a recent letter signed and published by the Israeli President's office, emphasizing that the charges against Netanyahu are politically motivated, while respecting the independence of the judiciary. Netanyahu had officially requested a pardon from Herzog, who said that the request is currently being handled through a process that includes the Ministry of Justice and the legal advisory team of his office, adding: "This is an exceptional request, and above all, I will consider the best interest of the Israeli people, as the well-being of the people is my top priority." It is worth noting that Netanyahu has been on trial for more than five years on charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, amid ongoing political debate about the possibility of granting him a pardon.
