Israel’s president pushes back after Trump criticism over Netanyahu pardon

Isaac Herzog has responded to criticism from Donald Trump, saying Israel remains “a sovereign state governed by law” as questions grow over a possible pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Israeli president’s office said the pardon request remains under review and is currently being examined by the justice ministry for a legal opinion, which Herzog requested before making any determination, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media.

The remarks were described by officials in Israel’s presidency as unusual, particularly as no final decision has yet been made.

In a statement, the presidency said Herzog values Trump’s contribution to Israel’s security but stressed that decisions on pardons must follow legal procedures and remain free from external or internal pressure. The statement also clarified that no decision has yet been reached.

On February 12, Trump said Herzog “should be ashamed of himself,” surmising that “he doesn’t want to do it because I guess he loses his power” and that “the people of Israel should really shame him.”

Trump’s comments came months after he reportedly raised the possibility of a pardon during a visit to Israel and later followed up with a formal message on the issue. Political observers suggest the latest criticism may reflect discussions between Trump and Netanyahu, although neither side has confirmed details of any private exchanges.

According to people familiar with conversations involving the prime minister, Netanyahu is said to believe his chances of securing clemency are limited. Some of those sources claim he has expressed concern that political or institutional pressures could influence the president’s decision.  Trump appeared to echo similar arguments, suggesting Herzog might fear political consequences if he approved a pardon.

The episode has drawn attention to the close relationship between Trump and Netanyahu, who have often expressed mutual political support. Some analysts suggest the US president’s intervention may have been intended to bolster Netanyahu’s position, while others argue that public pressure from a foreign leader could complicate the legal and political process surrounding the request.

Under Israeli law, the president has the authority to grant pardons, but such decisions typically follow detailed legal consultation and are considered carefully, particularly in cases involving senior political figures. Netanyahu is currently on trial in corruption cases, which he denies.

Herzog is returning to Israel from an official visit to Australia and is expected to review the request only after receiving the legal assessment.

By Aghakazim Guliyev