Netanyahu Seeks Presidential Pardon Amid Ongoing Corruption Trial: Impact on Israeli Political Landscape

Netanyahu indicated that the requirement for him to testify three times weekly had become the decisive factor in his decision.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, currently facing trial on corruption charges, revealed Sunday that he has filed a pardon request, citing concerns that the prolonged legal proceedings are dividing the nation.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, urging him to pardon Netanyahu, who has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the ongoing court cases.

"My trial has been in progress for nearly six years, and is expected to continue for many more years," Netanyahu explained in a video statement.

He expressed his preference to continue until vindication, "but the security and political reality -- the national interest -- dictate otherwise. Israel faces enormous challenges," he stated.

"The ongoing trial is internally dividing us, creating fierce disputes and deepening societal rifts."

The legal proceedings against Netanyahu have highlighted divisions within Israeli society between those who support him and those who oppose him.

Netanyahu's supporters have consistently characterized the trials as politically motivated.

In one case, the Prime Minister and his wife Sara are accused of accepting luxury goods valued at over $260,000, including cigars, jewelry, and champagne from wealthy individuals in exchange for political favors.

He also faces accusations of attempting to negotiate more favorable media coverage from two Israeli news outlets in two separate cases.

Netanyahu stated that the requirement to testify three times weekly had "tipped the scales" in his decision.

"Three times a week is an impossible requirement," he declared.

"I am confident, as are many across the nation, that concluding the trial immediately would significantly help reduce tensions and promote the broad reconciliation our country urgently needs."

Herzog's office acknowledged receipt of Netanyahu's pardon request.

"This constitutes an extraordinary request with significant implications. After obtaining all relevant opinions, the president will consider the request responsibly and sincerely," the president's office stated.

At 76, Netanyahu holds the distinction of being Israel's longest-serving prime minister, having served more than 18 years in the position across three different periods since 1996.

During his current term, which began in late 2022, Netanyahu proposed extensive judicial reforms that critics argued would weaken the courts.

These proposals sparked massive protests that only subsided after the Gaza war began in October 2023.

Netanyahu, leader of the Likud party, has indicated he will participate in the next elections, which are scheduled to take place before the end of 2026.