President Isaac Herzog of Israel has clarified the legal process surrounding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s pardon request, responding to Donald Trump’s characterization of his methodical approach as disgraceful and deserving of public condemnation.
In a statement released Thursday, Herzog’s office detailed the ongoing review, explaining that the Ministry of Justice is currently preparing a formal legal opinion on the pardon application following established governmental protocols. The statement stressed that Herzog has not made any decision on the matter and explicitly rejected impressions created by Trump’s remarks that suggested improper delay or refusal.
The controversy escalated when Trump, speaking to reporters during Netanyahu’s Washington visit for high-level talks, launched a personal attack on Herzog’s character. The former U.S. president stated that Herzog “should be ashamed of himself” for not immediately granting the pardon and suggested that Israeli citizens should express their disapproval of their president’s approach. Trump’s comments represented a notable departure from typical diplomatic discourse.
The corruption allegations against Netanyahu span multiple cases involving various forms of alleged misconduct. Two cases focus on accusations that Netanyahu negotiated arrangements with Israeli media organizations, trading governmental decisions for favorable news coverage of himself and his policies. The third case involves claims that Netanyahu accepted extravagant gifts worth over $260,000 from billionaire associates, including luxury cigars, premium champagne, and expensive jewelry, allegedly in exchange for political favors.
Netanyahu’s position as Israel’s first serving prime minister to face criminal trial has created significant political tension since the proceedings began in 2019. Throughout all cases, Netanyahu has vigorously maintained his innocence, consistently characterizing the prosecutions as politically motivated attacks designed to undermine his leadership. Despite one charge being dismissed, three substantial cases remain active. The current pardon debate emerged following Trump’s October address to the Israeli parliament, where he publicly urged Herzog to grant clemency, which prompted Netanyahu’s legal team to formally submit a pardon petition.