Israeli President Herzog Rejects Netanyahu’s Pardon Request Amid Political Divisions
The New York Times, citing informed sources, reported that Isaac Herzog, the President of Israel, will not currently accept Benjamin Netanyahu’s request for a pardon and prefers to pursue mediation and a legal settlement to resolve his court cases.
According to the report, Herzog is concerned that granting a direct pardon to Netanyahu would deepen existing political and social divisions in Israeli society and spark a new wave of protests from his opponents. Polls indicate that about half of Israeli citizens oppose pardoning Netanyahu, making the decision particularly delicate.
The 76-year-old Netanyahu has faced legal proceedings in Israeli courts for nearly six years on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. These charges are examined through three separate but related cases, centered around allegations of receiving gifts from wealthy individuals or granting favors in exchange for positive media coverage for himself and his family members.
Throughout the legal process, the Prime Minister has repeatedly postponed court sessions for various reasons and ultimately requested a pardon. While denying the allegations, he has described the pardon as being in the interest of Israel, a move that has drawn criticism from citizens and political groups within the country.
Meanwhile, the Israeli President aims to resolve the cases through a legal agreement. Under Israeli law, such an agreement typically requires the accused to admit to wrongdoing.
Some legal experts in Israel believe any such deal must include Netanyahu’s resignation from office. However, he has so far refused to accept the charges and has shown no indication of willingness to resign.
Informed sources say Herzog continues to seek a solution that both concludes the legal proceedings and prevents further expansion of political divisions within Israel.
