Prime Minister Netanyahu Submits Formal Pardon Request to President Herzog

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu submitted a formal request for a presidential pardon this afternoon to President Isaac Herzog, ending years of speculation over whether he would seek to halt his corruption trial. The request was delivered through Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, and immediately transferred, according to protocol, to the Pardons Department at the Justice Ministry.

In his letter to the President, Netanyahu said he was acting due to the “deep tensions” that have developed inside Israeli society. “In recent years, tensions and disagreements have deepened between parts of the nation and between the branches of the state,” he wrote, adding that the legal process against him “has become a focal point for fierce disputes.” He said he carries “broad public and moral responsibility, fully aware of the implications of all the events.”

The Prime Minister wrote that the criminal proceedings “harm Israel’s national interests,” arguing they “inflame the divisions between parts of the people and divert public attention from the diplomatic and security issues on the national agenda.” He added that the trial has reached an “unprecedented pace,” noting that “most days of the week are now devoted to hearings, placing an increasing burden on the prime minister.”

Netanyahu emphasized that he is not confessing to the charges. “If the legal process were to continue to its end, it would conclude with a full acquittal,” he wrote. “I forgo the right to continue the legal process in light of the need to bring unity to the nation.”

Hadad argued in the official submission that “granting this request will allow the prime minister to dedicate all his time, abilities, and strength to advancing the State of Israel in these critical days,” citing “extraordinary developments expected in the Middle East” that require “significant preparation, diplomatic and security efforts, and round-the-clock attention.”

The President’s office confirmed that the request includes two documents: a detailed letter signed by Netanyahu’s attorney and a personal letter signed by the prime minister. “This is an exceptional pardon request with significant implications,” the office said. “After receiving all legal opinions, the President will consider it with full seriousness.”

Shortly after submitting the request, Netanyahu released a public video statement. “Citizens of Israel, nearly a decade has passed since the investigations against me began,” he said. “The trial has gone on for six years and is expected to continue for many more years. Israel faces enormous challenges alongside extraordinary opportunities… to repel the threats and realize these opportunities, national unity is required.”

Netanyahu argued that the proceedings tear at the country’s fabric. “The continuation of the trial tears us apart from within, stirs fierce disagreements, and deepens societal rifts. An immediate end to the trial will help lower the flames and promote broad national reconciliation.” He said recent judicial developments forced his decision: “Because of a decision related to the judicial panel, I am required to testify three times a week. This is an impossible demand.”

He also referenced appeals from former U.S. President Donald Trump to Herzog. “Trump called for ending the trial so that together we can advance vital interests shared by Israel and the United States,” Netanyahu said.

Reactions in the political system were immediate and sharply divided. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said, “Although I believe the prime minister deserves full acquittal… out of national responsibility, I support the pardon request.” Coalition Chair Ofir Katz called Netanyahu’s move “an act of immense leadership,” saying he was “choosing unity and reconciliation over personal interest.”

On the other side, Democratic Party leader Yair Golan dismissed the request entirely. “Only someone guilty requests a pardon,” he said. “The only real deal is for Netanyahu to take responsibility, admit guilt, and leave politics.”

The submission now triggers a multi-stage legal process: the Pardons Department in the Justice Ministry will collect all relevant opinions from inside the ministry, then the material will be forwarded to the President’s legal adviser to prepare a formal recommendation. Only afterward will Herzog decide whether to grant or deny the request, a move that could itself be challenged before the Israeli Supreme Court. The office expects Herzog’s decision to take several weeks.