Trump writes to Israeli president calling for Netanyahu pardon
Guardian22 hrs
Trump Requests Israeli Pardon for Netanyahu's Corruption Case
Above: Donald Trump with Benjamin Netanyahu at the Knesset, in Jerusalem on Oct. 13, 2025. Image copyright: Chip Somodevilla/Pool/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
Netanyahu deserves a pardon for his heroic wartime leadership that has neutralized Iran's nuclear threat and brought historic peace to the Middle East. The corruption charges are a politically driven witch hunt that threatens to handicap Israel's prime minister during a critical moment for regional stability. Trump's intervention reflects the reality that Netanyahu's legal entanglements could derail the expansion of the Abraham Accords and lasting peace.
Anti-Trump narrative
Trump's demand for Netanyahu's pardon constitutes blatant interference in Israel's sovereign judicial system and crosses a dangerous red line. Netanyahu chose to remain in office despite his corruption trial and must face justice like any other citizen of that country accused of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The charges against him stem from legitimate evidence, not political persecution, and no foreign leader should pressure Israel's independent courts.