Israel’s Prime Minister, known for his aggressive stance against rival countries, is now facing serious corruption charges. He has reportedly approached the President, seeking a pardon to halt the ongoing legal cases against him. Netanyahu is the first Israeli Prime Minister to remain in office despite pending criminal trials. He faces allegations of bribery, accepting illegal benefits, and gaining political support from telecom companies and Hollywood producers in exchange for favors.
Netanyahu challenges Israel’s judicial system
Benjamin Netanyahu has openly challenged Israel’s judicial system over the corruption allegations against him. He claims that his request for a presidential pardon would help unite the country during a period of significant regional changes. However, his opponents have strongly criticized the move, saying it could weaken Israel’s democratic institutions and send a dangerous message that he is above the law. The Prime Minister’s office stated on Sunday that Netanyahu submitted his pardon request to the legal department of the President’s office, which described it as an extraordinary request.
Netanyahu has not been convicted
Netanyahu is currently facing three criminal cases, but he has not been found guilty in any of them. Nevertheless, these cases put his political career at risk. If he is convicted in any case, he may have to resign immediately. Netanyahu has denied all allegations, claiming that the cases are part of a conspiracy involving the media, police, and judiciary.
Trump urged pardon for Netanyahu
This pardon request comes a few weeks after former US President Donald Trump urged Israel to pardon Netanyahu. Earlier this month, Trump sent a letter to President Isaac Herzog, calling the corruption cases politically motivated and unfair. In a video message, Netanyahu said that the ongoing trials have divided the country and that a pardon could help restore national unity. He also expressed that having to appear in court three times a week distracts him from leading the country.
Netanyahu stated, “The continuation of these cases breaks us from within, divides the nation, and deepens the cracks. Like many others, I believe that a swift resolution would promote reconciliation, which our country urgently needs.”
However, legal experts have said that a presidential pardon cannot stop the cases. Former Attorney General Amy Pomer noted, “It is impossible.”He stated, “You cannot claim to be innocent while the trial is ongoing.” He added that the only way to stop the case would be to request the Attorney General to halt the proceedings.
The opposition immediately reacted to Netanyahu’s request, urging the President not to approve it. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said, “You cannot grant a pardon without him admitting guilt, showing remorse, or immediately retiring from political life.”
