Netanyahu Seeks Presidential Pardon to End Long-Running Corruption Trial

Netanyahu asks Israel's president for pardon to end his long-running corruption trial, intensifying political divisions and legal debate amid controversy.

TEL AVIV — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday asked the country’s president to grant him a pardon from corruption charges, seeking to end a long-running trial that has bitterly divided the nation.

The pardon request marks a dramatic turn in the saga of the corruption case that has dominated Israeli politics for years. Netanyahu’s move to appeal directly to the president underscores the high stakes: a potential presidential pardon could halt legal proceedings and reshape the political landscape.

Supporters of Netanyahu framed the request as a bid for national unity and political stability, arguing that ending the trial could allow the government to focus on pressing security and economic issues. Critics, however, warned that a pardon could erode public trust in the rule of law and set a troubling precedent for accountability in Israel.

Under Israeli law, the president has the authority to grant pardons or commute sentences, but such decisions are rare and often politically charged. The process typically involves legal review and public scrutiny, and any pardon for a sitting prime minister would likely prompt intense debate in parliament, the courts, and the streets.

The request has reignited protests and political discussion across the country. For many Israelis, the case represents more than one politician’s fate — it highlights deep divisions over corruption, governance, and the balance between legal institutions and political power. Commentators say the pardon request will test both legal norms and the resilience of democratic checks and balances.

International observers are also watching closely. A presidential pardon in a high-profile corruption case could influence perceptions of Israel’s judiciary and its commitment to transparency. Allies and critics alike may weigh in as the president considers the legal and ethical implications.

As the nation awaits the president’s response, questions remain about the future of the trial, the potential political fallout, and the long-term impact on public confidence. Whether a pardon will be granted, and what it would mean for Israel’s democracy, will be decided in the coming days — a moment that will likely be remembered as a pivotal chapter in the country’s recent history.

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