President vows national interest will decide Netanyahu’s fate as political blocs clash over Israel’s future.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed the nation Monday regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request for a presidential pardon, stressing that he will consider only Israel’s national interest and will not be influenced by hostile rhetoric, political pressure, or escalating public agitation.
Herzog acknowledged the gravity of the moment, noting that Netanyahu’s request has triggered intense debate across Israeli society:
“This issue is deeply unsettling for many people. I will examine it precisely and correctly. I will consider solely the best interests of the State of Israel and Israeli society.”
The president added that violent discourse would have no impact on him, while respectful engagement would. He invited Israelis to submit their views through the President’s Residence website.
Behind the scenes: serious consideration, political maneuvering, and high stakes
Channel 13 reported earlier that Herzog is giving serious thought to the request, including the possibility — floated by some political figures — of a conditional pardon linked to advancing elections.
However, Netanyahu’s associates dismissed such speculation:
“This is all or nothing. Either a full, unconditional pardon — or Netanyahu continues the trial to complete acquittal.”
On Sunday, the Prime Minister submitted his official pardon request via attorney Amit Hadad. The appeal comes six years after indictments were filed and includes no admission of guilt — underscoring Netanyahu’s insistence on his innocence.
In his letter, Netanyahu highlighted the national fracture surrounding his trial:
“The proceedings in my case have become a focus of fierce debate. Despite my personal interest in proving my innocence, I believe the public interest now dictates otherwise.”
He added that ending the trial would cool political flames and aid national reconciliation at a moment when Israel faces relentless external enemies and internal divisions.
A deeply consequential decision now moves through Israel’s legal channels
Herzog’s office emphasized that the request is extraordinary and will be reviewed with utmost seriousness.
The case has now been forwarded to the Pardons Department of the Justice Ministry, followed by review from:
- the ministry’s legal professionals,
- the President’s legal adviser,
- and the relevant ministerial authority.
Due to a conflict of interest, Justice Minister Yariv Levin will not handle the matter — instead, Minister Amichai Eliyahu is expected to take responsibility.
The coming weeks will determine whether Israel enters a new political chapter with a pardoned prime minister — or sees Netanyahu continue his legal battle in a trial that has divided the nation and energized anti-Netanyahu factions, many aligned with foreign-funded left-wing and pro-Palestinian advocacy networks seeking to weaken Israeli leadership during war.
