Trump urges Israeli president to pardon Netanyahu, calls Herzog a 'national hero' if he grants clemency
President Donald Trump is again pressing Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying in an interview that Herzog could be seen as a “national hero” if he grants clemency in Netanyahu’s long-running corruption case.
Trump said Netanyahu brought up his trial during a recent conversation and noted that the Israeli leader would be appearing in court again while the country is focused on the ongoing war with Iran. “In the middle of a war? Give me a break,” Trump said, arguing the proceedings distract from national security priorities.
In the same interview, Trump confirmed he personally raised the idea of a pardon and shifted to a more conciliatory tone toward Herzog after months of criticism. “I like the guy, Herzog,” Trump said. “He will be a national hero if he gives Bibi a pardon. I will very much appreciate it.”
Trump dismissed the corruption allegations against Netanyahu, describing them as minor matters involving “wine and cigars,” while arguing the Israeli prime minister should not have to face trial while leading the country during wartime. Netanyahu denies the charges, which include allegations that he accepted gifts in exchange for political favors.
The push marks an escalation in Trump’s long-standing effort to secure a pardon for Netanyahu, whom he has defended since last year while comparing the Israeli leader’s legal troubles to his own. Trump has repeatedly described the case as politically motivated and called it a “witch hunt.”
The issue is politically sensitive in Israel, where any pardon decision by Herzog could energize Netanyahu’s supporters but spark backlash from opponents ahead of national elections scheduled for October. If Netanyahu were to lose power, his legal exposure could increase significantly.
Earlier this week, Herzog moved the process forward by inviting Netanyahu’s legal team, the attorney general, and state prosecutors to explore potential plea negotiations. He has said no decision on a pardon will be made until those talks are completed.
Trump, however, said he believes Netanyahu would not accept a plea deal and should instead receive a full pardon. Netanyahu has rejected any suggestion of wrongdoing and is unlikely to agree to terms that could force him out of politics.
Under Israeli law, pardons typically require acknowledgment of wrongdoing, a condition Netanyahu has not met. Any negotiated settlement could also carry consequences for his political future, making a resolution more complicated.
Trump previously criticized Herzog sharply over the issue in earlier interviews, but his latest remarks reflect a softer approach, even as he continues to push for immediate clemency.
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