Trump Writes to Israeli President, Urges Pardon for Netanyahu Over ‘Political and Unfair’ Trial

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has received a letter from former U.S. President Donald Trump urging him to consider granting a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Herzog’s office said on Wednesday.

Netanyahu has been facing a long-running corruption trial, and Trump — a longtime ally — has repeatedly called for clemency for the Israeli leader. Netanyahu has denied all charges, describing himself as innocent and claiming the case against him is politically motivated.

In the letter, shared by Herzog’s office, Trump wrote:

“While I fully respect the independence and the vital role of the Israeli judicial system, I believe that Bibi — who has fought alongside me for many years, including against Israel’s greatest adversary, Iran — is being subjected to a political and unfair prosecution.”

Herzog’s office noted that any request for clemency must be submitted formally in accordance with established legal procedures.

Trump had previously made a similar appeal during his October visit to Israel, where he addressed the Knesset in Jerusalem and publicly urged Herzog to pardon Netanyahu.

Netanyahu, for his part, has characterized his legal battle as part of a left-wing conspiracy aimed at removing an elected right-wing leader from power.