"You Go Straight to the Point": Netanyahu Thanks Trump for Pardon Plea, But Refuses to Apply for Clemency

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly thanked US President Donald Trump for sending an unprecedented letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, urging him to pardon Netanyahu in his ongoing corruption trial. However, despite the powerful endorsement, sources close to the Prime Minister confirmed that Netanyahu has no intention of submitting a formal pardon request.

Netanyahu responded to Trump's public appeal by stating: "Thank you, President Trump, for your amazing support. As usual, you go straight to the point and state things as they are. I look forward to the continuation of our partnership to strengthen security and expand peace."

Behind the Scenes of the Letter

The surprising request, which was sent to President Isaac Herzog this week, was apparently prompted by a subtle nudge from Israeli officials following a speech by Trump during his recent visit to the Knesset.

During that visit, Trump made a veiled reference, reportedly in a serious yet joking manner, hinting that Herzog should grant Netanyahu a pardon. According to a behind-the-scenes report, officials in Israel then conveyed a diplomatic message back to Trump. They explained that if he was serious about the matter, there were structured legal procedures for the Israeli justice system that needed to be followed, and suggested he send a formal letter to President Herzog.

An informed source indicated that following Trump's address, a message was passed from senior Israeli officials highlighting the differences between pardon procedures in Israel and the U.S., clarifying the formal process for clemency in Israel, and emphasizing the need to respect the rules of the Israeli judicial system.

Herzog Stands Firm on Rules

President Isaac Herzog confirmed earlier on Wednesday that he had received the signed letter from President Trump, which called on him to consider granting clemency to Prime Minister Netanyahu.

The President’s Residence released a statement acknowledging Trump's unwavering support for Israel: "The President of the State greatly respects President Trump, and reiterates his appreciation for his unequivocal support for Israel and his immense contribution to the return of the hostages, changing the face of the Middle East and Gaza, and maintaining the security of the State of Israel."

However, Herzog firmly maintained the legal prerequisites for a pardon: "Without detracting from the above, as the President of the State has made clear more than once, anyone seeking a pardon must submit a request in accordance with the rules." Under Israeli law, a person generally must be convicted and express remorse before a pardon can be considered.

Despite the highly visible international support from the U.S. President, sources close to Netanyahu told the media that the Prime Minister currently has no intention of submitting a letter requesting a pardon from Herzog, maintaining his stance that he is innocent of the charges.