Israel’s president has indicated that he will not rush into a decision on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s pardon request in his long-running corruption case. Instead, he prefers that legal efforts focus on reaching a possible agreement before any presidential intervention.
Ongoing legal battle continues
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He denies all allegations. The case, which began nearly a decade ago, has deeply divided Israeli society and influenced multiple elections since his indictment in 2019.
The next national election in Israel is scheduled for October 2026, keeping the political stakes high as the trial continues.
President Herzog pushes for negotiated outcome
President Isaac Herzog said that reaching an agreement between both sides would serve as the most effective outcome. He suggested that legal teams should first explore a settlement or plea deal before the presidency reviews any pardon request.
According to Herzog’s office, this approach aims to avoid premature decisions while encouraging resolution outside the courtroom.
No precedent for early pardon
Netanyahu formally submitted a pardon request in November. Under Israeli law, the president holds the authority to grant pardons. However, Israel has no historical precedent for issuing a pardon while a trial is still ongoing.
Netanyahu remains the first sitting Israeli prime minister to face criminal prosecution.
Political pressure and international attention
The case has drawn international attention, including repeated calls from US President Donald Trump urging Herzog to consider a pardon. These appeals have added further political sensitivity to an already complex legal process.
Meanwhile, Herzog has not confirmed any active mediation but has not ruled out supporting efforts toward a negotiated resolution.
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Trial set to continue
Netanyahu is expected to return to court this week as proceedings resume. The trial, which began in 2020, continues to shape Israel’s political landscape and remains one of the most closely watched legal cases in the country.
Key takeaway
President Herzog is not expected to make an immediate decision on the pardon request. Instead, he is encouraging renewed efforts toward a possible legal settlement before any final presidential action.
