Israeli president to consider 'only the best interest of state' on Netanyahu's corruption pardon

Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated on Monday that his decision regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s potential request for a pardon on corruption charges will be based solely on what serves Israel’s “best interests.”

The issue is “clearly provoking debate and is deeply unsettling for many people in the country, across different communities”, Herzog said in a statement.

“I will consider solely the best interests of the State of Israel and Israeli society,” he added.

Why is Netanyahu seeking pardon from Herzog?

Netanyahu, who has been on trial for corruption charges for nearly six years, announced on Sunday, that he had formally submitted a request for a pardon to President Herzog.

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Netanyahu continues to deny any wrongdoing in the proceedings but argued that the continuation of the lengthy and complex legal battle is severely “tearing the country apart” and intensifying domestic rifts.

Netanyahu explained in a video statement that while he ideally would see the trial through until acquittal, the current “security and political reality,” coupled with the “national interest,” necessitates an immediate end to the process.

He specifically highlighted the “impossible requirement” of having to testify three times a week as having “tipped the scales.” His lawyers’ 111-page submission to Herzog likewise did not include an admission of guilt, instead focusing on the need for “broad reconciliation.”

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The move follows a letter sent to Herzog earlier in the month by President Donald Trump, urging the Israeli President to grant a pardon to Netanyahu. The cases against the long-serving premier involve accusations in one instance of accepting over $260,000 in luxury items from wealthy benefactors in exchange for political favours. He also faces charges related to allegedly attempting to secure more favourable coverage from two Israeli media outlets.

President Herzog’s office confirmed receipt of what it termed an “extraordinary request which carries with it significant implications,” promising to consider it “responsibly and sincerely” after gathering all relevant opinions. Herzog had previously indicated in September that the prime minister’s case “weighs heavily on Israeli society.”