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Israeli President Isaac Herzog has decided against issuing a presidential pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at this time, opting instead to mediate a plea deal aimed at resolving the long-running corruption trial that has gripped the country for years. According to officials with direct knowledge of the matter, Herzog views a negotiated resolution as a more appropriate path forward, one that could foster national unity without the precedent-setting implications of a pardon while the trial is ongoing. His office confirmed that he sees “reaching a plea deal between the parties in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s cases as a proper and correct solution,” emphasizing the need to exhaust negotiations outside the courtroom, reported NYT.
Netanyahu formally requested the pardon from Herzog in November 2025, arguing that the trial — which has required his frequent court appearances — was dividing Israeli society and hindering his ability to focus on pressing national security matters, including ongoing regional threats. He framed the move as serving the “national interest,” a position supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, who repeatedly urged Herzog to grant clemency. The Justice Ministry’s pardons department had recommended against the pardon, describing it as highly problematic and unprecedented given that Netanyahu has not admitted guilt or expressed remorse. Herzog’s office had requested additional materials from the ministry as recently as late March 2026 amid intense political pressure.
Background on the Trial
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in three cases stemming from allegations dating back years. The trial, which began in 2020, has seen delays due to the premier’s other responsibilities and major events including the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks and subsequent wars. Netanyahu has consistently denied all wrongdoing, maintaining that the cases are politically motivated, reported The Times of Israel.
Previous attempts at a plea bargain have faltered, often over issues such as potential disqualification from public office. Herzog’s latest initiative seeks to revive mediated talks, positioning the presidency as a bridge to resolution.
Political Ramifications
The decision comes at a sensitive time for Israeli politics. Supporters of Netanyahu in the governing coalition have pushed hard for a pardon, while critics argue it would undermine the rule of law. Herzog, whose role is largely ceremonial but includes the constitutional power to grant pardons, has stressed that his actions would be guided solely by the good of the state and Israeli society, reported i24.
By deferring a direct yes-or-no on the pardon and prioritizing mediation, Herzog appears to be navigating a path that avoids immediate confrontation while keeping options open. Whether the involved parties — prosecutors, defense, and Netanyahu himself — will engage remains to be seen.Herzog’s office has not set a timeline for the mediation effort or a final decision on the pardon request. The corruption trial continues in the meantime, reported Haraatz.
1 comment
If the wars end, Netanyahoo, Trump and Zelenskyy all go to prison. Wonder why they refuse to end them?