Published: 13 November 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online
US President Donald Trump has formally urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to “fully pardon” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a letter released this week.
Netanyahu has been on trial for the past five years facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust across three separate cases. He has denied any wrongdoing. In his letter, Trump stated that while he “absolutely” respects the independence of Israel’s justice system, he believes Netanyahu is the target of a “political, unjustified prosecution.”
Herzog’s office responded diplomatically, noting that he holds Trump “in the highest regard” but emphasized that anyone seeking a pardon must submit a formal request following established procedures.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Trump for his support, writing on X that the former president “gets right to the point” and that he looks forward to continuing their partnership to strengthen security and expand peace.
Netanyahu became the first sitting Israeli prime minister to stand trial in 2020. The charges include receiving gifts such as cigars and champagne from influential businessmen in exchange for favours, attempting to secure positive coverage in an Israeli newspaper in return for political assistance, and promoting regulatory decisions to benefit the controlling shareholder of an Israeli telecom company in exchange for favourable media coverage. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and labelled the trial a “witch-hunt” by political opponents.
Last month, following his involvement in brokering a ceasefire in Gaza, Trump made a remark during a speech to the Israeli parliament suggesting Herzog should pardon Netanyahu, dismissing the significance of the gift-related charges.
In the formal letter, Trump highlighted Netanyahu’s leadership during wartime and his role in guiding Israel into a period of peace. He also pointed out Netanyahu’s alliance with him against common threats, including Iran.
Under Israel’s Basic Law, the president has the authority to pardon criminals or reduce sentences. The High Court of Justice has ruled that a pardon may also be granted before conviction under exceptional circumstances or in the public interest. However, a pardon typically requires a formal request from the accused or a close relative. While speculation has grown in Israeli media, no official request has yet been made.


























































































