Is Israeli PM Netanyahu Seeking a Pardon from President Herzog over Corruption Allegations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Netanyahu has submitted a pardon request to President Herzog.
- The request is aimed at allowing focus on national challenges.
- Netanyahu faces serious corruption allegations, including bribery and fraud.
- President Herzog will review all relevant recommendations before making a decision.
- Trump's advocacy for the pardon adds political weight to Netanyahu's request.
Jerusalem, Nov 30 (NationPress) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog. This request, as reported by local media, includes a letter signed by Netanyahu and a submission from his attorney Amit Hadad.
Hadad has presented a detailed 111-page document to the Legal Department of Herzog's Residence.
In this document, Hadad emphasized, "Approving this request will enable the prime minister to dedicate his full attention, skills, and energy towards propelling Israel forward during these pivotal times," and to address the numerous challenges and opportunities ahead. Furthermore, he noted that granting the pardon could facilitate healing divisions within the populace, reduce tensions, and ultimately enhance the nation's resilience.
Herzog's office has indicated that the Justice Ministry's Pardons Department will consult all pertinent authorities within the ministry before forwarding their recommendations to Herzog's legal advisor.
A statement from Herzog's office acknowledged, "The Presidential Office understands that this is an unusual request with profound implications." They added, "Following the collection of all relevant viewpoints, the president will consider the request with care and integrity."
The President of Israel has the authority to grant pardons to individuals convicted by the courts, and in exceptional circumstances, even before legal proceedings conclude, if deemed beneficial for the public.
Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Herzog advocating for a pardon for Netanyahu. Netanyahu faces serious allegations, including one count of bribery and three counts each of fraud and breach of trust across three separate corruption cases.
The letter stated, "As the great State of Israel and the remarkable Jewish people move beyond the challenging times of the past three years, I urge you to fully pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been a decisive Wartime Prime Minister, now steering Israel towards peace, alongside my ongoing efforts with key Middle Eastern leaders to expand the transformative Abraham Accords," as reported by the prominent political website, The Hill.