Trump Formally Requests Israeli President Pardon Netanyahu in Unprecedented Letter

Former US President Donald Trump has formally asked Israel’s president to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The request came in an official letter sent to President Isaac Herzog on November 12, 2025. This direct intervention into Israel’s domestic legal affairs is without modern precedent.

Trump’s letter calls the long-running corruption case against Netanyahu “political and unjustified.” He argues that a pardon is necessary for national unity. The appeal was made public as Netanyahu faced another day in court.

Legal Hurdles and Presidential Authority in Israel

Israeli law presents an immediate obstacle to Trump’s request. According to Reuters, a presidential pardon can only be granted before a trial begins or after a conviction is secured. Netanyahu’s trial is currently ongoing, placing it in a legal gray zone.

President Herzog’s office acknowledged receipt of the letter. His response emphasized that any pardon must follow established procedures. This requires a formal request from the defendant, which Netanyahu has not submitted.

The Israeli High Court has previously ruled on pre-conviction pardons. Such actions are permitted only in extreme circumstances for the public good. Legal experts told the Associated Press the current situation does not meet this high bar.

Political Reactions Reveal Deep National Divisions

The request has sparked intense debate across Israel’s political spectrum. Right-wing ministers immediately supported Trump’s appeal. They argue the trial has damaged national unity, especially during ongoing security challenges.

Opposition leaders condemned the foreign intervention. Yair Lapid stated that “a country with national dignity does not behave this way.” He emphasized that Israeli law requires admission of guilt for pardons, which Netanyahu has refused.

Civil society groups voiced strong objections. The Movement for Quality Government in Israel called the letter “inappropriate interference.” They insist the legal process must continue independently.

The Corruption Charges at the Heart of the Matter

Netanyahu faces serious charges in three separate cases. Case 1000 involves allegations of receiving expensive gifts from wealthy businessmen. These gifts included cigars and champagne worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Case 2000 concerns alleged media manipulation. Netanyahu is accused of offering regulatory benefits to a newspaper publisher in exchange for positive coverage. Case 4000 involves similar allegations regarding telecom regulations.

The Prime Minister has pleaded not guilty to all charges. He consistently describes the cases as a political “witch hunt” against him. His supporters point to his election victories during the trial as proof of public support.

Broader Implications for Israeli Democracy and US Relations

The pardon request touches on sensitive issues of national sovereignty. Many Israelis see it as testing the independence of their judicial system. This comes after previous government efforts to overhaul the judiciary sparked massive protests.

Trump’s intervention reflects his broader pattern of supporting allied conservative leaders internationally. Earlier this year, he helped arrange financial support for Argentina’s president. His letter frames Netanyahu’s leadership as crucial for Middle East stability.

The timing is particularly sensitive given Israel’s ongoing security operations. Trump argues that Netanyahu’s wartime leadership justifies setting aside legal proceedings. This perspective finds support among some security hawks but alarms legal purists.

What Comes Next in the Netanyahu Legal Saga

The trial continues its slow progress through the Jerusalem District Court. Legal analysts expect no immediate resolution, with appeals likely to follow any verdict. The process could continue for many more months.

Netanyahu’s political future remains tied to the trial’s outcome. A conviction would force him from office under Israeli law. An acquittal would represent a dramatic vindication of his claims of persecution.

The presidential pardon option remains theoretically available. However, it would require either a conclusion to the trial or a radical reinterpretation of presidential powers. Neither scenario appears imminent according to BBC analysis.

Trump’s direct appeal for a Netanyahu pardon marks a dramatic moment in US-Israel relations. It highlights the deep political divisions within Israeli society. The outcome will shape Israel’s democratic institutions for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

What specific charges does Benjamin Netanyahu face?

Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. These span three separate cases involving gifts and alleged media manipulation. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Can the Israeli president legally pardon Netanyahu during an ongoing trial?

Israeli law generally restricts presidential pardons to pre-trial or post-conviction scenarios. Legal experts indicate a mid-trial pardon would be highly unusual and face certain legal challenges.

How has Netanyahu’s government responded to the pardon request?

Coalition ministers have largely supported Trump’s initiative. They argue the trial has been divisive and politically motivated. Opposition parties have universally condemned the foreign interference.

What is the current status of Netanyahu’s corruption trial?

The trial continues in the Jerusalem District Court. Proceedings have been ongoing for over five years with regular hearings. The case appears likely to continue for the foreseeable future.

Has any Israeli leader ever been pardoned before conviction?

No Israeli prime minister has ever received a presidential pardon before conviction. The most famous presidential pardon involved a former minister after his conviction had been secured.

Why did Trump choose this particular timing for his request?

The timing coincides with Netanyahu’s ongoing court appearances and Israel’s complex political situation. Trump has consistently supported Netanyahu throughout his legal challenges.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press, BBC News, The Times of Israel, Haaretz