Herzog Says He Will Weigh State’s Interest as Netanyahu Seeks Pre-Conviction Pardon

Overview

• Netanyahu formally submitted two letters—one from his lawyer and one signed by him—seeking a presidential pardon to halt three corruption cases dating to 2019.
• He argues the proceedings are dividing Israel and says being required to testify multiple times a week hinders governing, while maintaining he expects acquittal.
• Herzog’s office confirmed receipt and routed the request to the Presidency’s legal team and the Justice Ministry’s Pardons Department for opinions before a decision.
• U.S. President Donald Trump urged Herzog in a letter to grant clemency and labeled the prosecutions political, drawing criticism inside Israel.
• Opposition leaders and large protests outside the president’s residence pressed for denial or strict conditions such as admitting guilt, expressing remorse, or leaving politics.