Overview

• President Trump posted on Truth Social that Netanyahu’s corruption trial should be “cancelled immediately” or that he be pardoned, calling the proceedings a “witch hunt.”
• Netanyahu has faced trial since May 2020 on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust linked to alleged luxury gifts and media-favor deals.
• Trump credited Netanyahu’s wartime leadership against Iran’s nuclear threat as justification for U.S. intervention in the legal case.
• The president’s call marks an unprecedented U.S. effort to influence the judiciary of a democratic ally.
• Israeli President Isaac Herzog retains the power to pardon but has said no request has been made and a pardon is not under consideration.