Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Nov 30: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally submitted a request for a presidential pardon to President Isaac Herzog, according to local media reports on Sunday. The appeal includes both a detailed petition from Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, and a personal letter from the prime minister himself.

Hadad delivered a comprehensive 111-page request to the Legal Department at the President’s Residence. In his submission, he argued that approving the pardon would allow Netanyahu to fully dedicate his “time, abilities, and energy” to steering Israel through a period of significant challenges and opportunities. Hadad added that such a decision could also help ease public tensions and strengthen national unity, as reported by The Times of Israel.

Herzog’s office confirmed that the Justice Ministry’s Pardons Department will now review the matter, consulting all relevant authorities before presenting its recommendation to the president’s legal adviser. A statement from the president’s office acknowledged the unusual nature of the appeal, emphasizing that it carries “significant implications” and that Herzog will consider it carefully once all opinions are gathered.

Under Israeli law, the president holds the power to grant pardons to individuals convicted in court—and, in exceptional circumstances, even before legal proceedings conclude—if doing so is deemed to serve the public interest.

The request comes shortly after US President Donald Trump urged Herzog in a letter to grant Netanyahu a full pardon. Netanyahu is currently charged with one count of bribery and three counts each of fraud and breach of trust across several corruption cases. Trump described Netanyahu as a “formidable and decisive Wartime Prime Minister” and expressed support for his continued leadership as Israel works toward stability and broader regional peace, according to The Hill.