Netanyahu Seeks Pardon from Israeli President Amid Corruption Trial

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a presidential pardon from Isaac Herzog, stating that the ongoing corruption proceedings are obstructing his ability to govern and damaging national stability.

Netanyahu faces long-running charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, first filed in 2019. He continues to deny wrongdoing.

His legal team submitted the request without admission of guilt and argued that a pardon would prevent further political disruption during a period of security and diplomatic pressure.

In a video statement released by his office, Netanyahu said: “My lawyers sent a request for pardon to the president of the country today. I expect that anyone who wishes for the good of the country support this step.”

• Netanyahu asks President Herzog for pardon as trial pressures rise
• Request sparks political divide, with opposition demanding resignation
• Rare pre-verdict pardon appeal could reshape Israel’s legal and political norms

The request has sparked political division. Members of Netanyahu’s coalition expressed support, framing the move as necessary to maintain government continuity. Opposition figures rejected the request, saying a pardon should not be considered without an admission of guilt and a formal resignation from public office. Opposition leader Yair Lapid argued that granting clemency before a verdict would undermine legal accountability.

Israel’s pardon process allows the president to intervene at any stage, but historically pardons have been granted only after conviction. Legal analysts note that this request, submitted while hearings continue, is rare and may prompt institutional review of pardon criteria and judicial independence.

Herzog’s office described the request as “extraordinary” and confirmed it will be transferred to the Justice Ministry’s pardons department for assessment. The final decision rests with the president, with no legally mandated timeline for response.

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The outcome could influence Israel’s political landscape, coalition stability and future executive-judiciary boundaries. Until a ruling is issued, Netanyahu remains in office and the trial continues.