Minister Eliyahu Submits Netanyahu Pardon Opinion to President

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s pardon request advanced on Tuesday after Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu submitted his opinion to President Isaac Herzog, according to an official statement.

The submission included the Justice Ministry’s pardons department legal assessment and accompanying materials. The President’s Residence said the file will now move to an internal legal review process.

Eliyahu assumed responsibility for handling the request from Justice Minister Yariv Levin, who recused himself due to his close ties to the Prime Minister.

The President’s Residence said Herzog thanked Eliyahu and the Justice Ministry for what it described as thorough and comprehensive work carried out in accordance with relevant procedures.

The request is being considered while Netanyahu’s criminal trial is still ongoing, an unusual circumstance for a clemency proceeding. No timeline has been given for when a decision may be reached.

Under Israeli law, the president holds the authority to grant pardons, typically following a recommendation process that includes legal and ministerial input. The current review will examine the materials submitted before Herzog determines whether to proceed with or reject the request.

Netanyahu’s trial, which includes charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, has been ongoing for several years and remains unresolved.

The advancement of the pardon request comes amid broader political tensions surrounding the legal proceedings, though the President’s Residence has not indicated any position on the substance of the request.

Officials have emphasized that the process is being handled according to established legal frameworks.

No further details were provided regarding the content of Eliyahu’s opinion or the legal assessment submitted alongside it.