Netanyahu still faces corruption cases in Israel. President Isaac Herzog wants to persuade him to make a deal with the prosecution rather than grant a pardon, NYT reports.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has decided not to grant a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding his corruption cases, The New York Times reported on Sunday, April 26, as noted by DW.
According to media reports, instead of a pardon, Herzog wants to act as a mediator between Netanyahu and the prosecution to achieve a deal for the politician. Herzog justifies his reluctance to pardon Netanyahu by stating that this issue divides society in the country, and his role as president is to promote national unity, sources from NYT among officials said on condition of anonymity.
In Herzog's office, the publication was told that the president "emphasized that he considers reaching a mutually acceptable solution for the parties to be an important public interest," and that in the decision regarding Netanyahu's pardon, he would "act solely in accordance with Israeli law, guided by his conscience and in the interests of the state."
The role of the president in Israel is mainly ceremonial, but one of his few real powers is indeed the right to grant pardons, NYT reminds.
Netanyahu and Trump Urged Herzog to Approve Pardon
In November 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu submitted an official request for a pardon to Herzog. He also published a video address stating that his pardon "would help restore national unity," as the disputes over the corruption case against him "have divided the country."
Separately, Netanyahu complained that the requirement to appear in court three times a week distracts him from governing the state. At the same time, he did not admit his guilt.
Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump had asked Herzog for a pardon for Netanyahu, known for his friendly relations with the Israeli prime minister. In October, the American leader, speaking in the Israeli parliament (Knesset), stated from the podium: "I have an idea. Mr. President, why don’t you pardon him? Pardon him, let’s go!"
Later, Trump addressed Herzog in writing. The reasons for the pardon, Trump cites as "unprecedented successes" of Israel under Netanyahu, and the case against him as "politically unfounded persecution." Trump characterized Herzog in several of his comments as a "disgraceful," "weak," and "pathetic" person for not previously pardoning Netanyahu, notes NYT.
In Herzog's office, in response to Trump's letter, it was reminded that a person wishing for a pardon must submit the corresponding request themselves.
What Netanyahu is Accused of in Israel
Back in 2019, Netanyahu was charged in three cases - corruption, fraud, and abuse of power. In particular, it is alleged that he received valuable gifts from billionaire friends and allegedly sought regulatory leniency for media magnates in exchange for favorable coverage of his activities.
Netanyahu denies the charges, claiming that he has become a victim of a political "witch hunt" allegedly organized by a liberal "deep state." After winning the Knesset elections in 2022, the coalition formed by Netanyahu with far-right parties implemented judicial reform in the country, despite scandals and numerous protests.
The reform was intended to limit the ability of the Israeli Supreme Court - an entity that largely serves as a counterbalance to power - to influence government and parliamentary decisions. This provision was successfully overturned by the court. However, the reform changed the composition of the committee for appointing Supreme Court judges, increasing the influence of the authorities in this matter.
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