Herzog Hits Back At Furious Protesters After Netanyahu Requests Pardon: "Your Threats Won't Move Me"

Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog addressed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's unprecedented pardon request for the first time today (Monday), emphasizing that his decision would be guided solely by the best interests of the state and its society. "Violent discourse doesn't affect me, in fact, the opposite is true," Herzog stated, while inviting respectful public input on the matter.

The president's remarks come amid widespread controversy sparked by Netanyahu's formal submission of the pardon plea on Sunday, related to his ongoing corruption trials. Herzog acknowledged the request's divisive impact, noting, "It's clear to me that this upsets many people across different sectors in the country and stirs debate."

He pledged a thorough and precise review, adding, "I will consider only the good of the state and Israeli society, with only the State of Israel and its welfare before my eyes." Netanyahu's request, drafted by his legal team, argues that continuing the trials undermines national interests by exacerbating societal divisions and diverting attention from critical diplomatic and security challenges.

Interesting points from the document include:

Herzog described the request as "exceptional" and indicated that its evaluation could take "several weeks."

Notably, Netanyahu has not admitted guilt or expressed remorse, asserting the president's authority to grant a pardon even without a conviction.

The announcement has ignited protests outside the President's Residence in Jerusalem, with demonstrators voicing opposition. Public discourse on social media has exploded, with Israelis on both sides of the heated debate.

Unsurprisingly, opposition leaders have sharply criticized the move. MK Yair Golan called it an attempt to "cancel the trial, which is illegal." Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid mocked reporters for their focus and urged coalition members to reconsider their loyalties. National Unity's Benny Gantz and Yisrael Beytenu's Avigdor Liberman also condemned the request and related coalition maneuvers.

In an interesting development, Herzog is planning trip to the US next week, as this drama unfolds and against a backdrop of Trump pressuring him to give Netanyahu the much requested pardon.

Israel Hayom contributed to this article.