An Israeli watchdog organization, dedicated to fighting corruption and safeguarding democracy since 1990, denounced on Thursday a request by U.S. President Donald Trump to grant a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges.
The Movement for Quality Government in Israel (MQG) labeled Trump’s letter “an inappropriate intrusion into the domestic legal affairs of a sovereign and independent nation,” highlighting that Israel functions as “a robust and independent democracy with a top-tier judicial system.”
Netanyahu is being tried on three separate corruption cases, involving allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. These stem from claims he sought regulatory advantages and favorable press coverage in return for political and financial favors.
Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing, asserting the investigations are politically driven and aimed at toppling his leadership. Supporters dismiss the trials as legal warfare, while critics stress that no individual is exempt from the law.
MQG stressed that the criminal proceedings must proceed without political meddling, cautioning that any effort to pressure the courts “deeply damages the core principles of the State of Israel.” It called on global allies, including the U.S., to honor Israel’s sovereignty and the autonomy of its democratic framework.
Trump’s letter, verified by President Isaac Herzog’s office to Israeli media, urged Herzog to “completely pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has served as a formidable and decisive wartime prime minister.”
Trump framed the appeal as recognition of Netanyahu’s efforts in securing a Gaza ceasefire and achieving “unprecedented successes” with the White House. While noting respect for Israel’s judicial independence, Trump claimed the prosecutions against Netanyahu were politically motivated and unwarranted.
Herzog’s office informed media that the president cannot issue a pardon based solely on a foreign leader’s request, requiring formal procedures for any such application.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Trump on X for his backing, noting he looks forward to “continuing our partnership to fortify security and broaden peace.”
Reactions within Israel were sharply split. Yair Golan, leader of the opposition Democrats party, posted on X that Netanyahu sought a pardon while simultaneously denying guilt. “If he finds it difficult to manage both a country and a trial simultaneously, he should step down,” Golan wrote, adding “the law is explicit, and everyone is equal before it.”
Most of Netanyahu’s ministers supported Trump’s request. Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s Minister of National Security, called the indictments “fabricated and disgraceful,” asserting they had become an indictment of the prosecution itself. He argued that a pardon for Netanyahu was “necessary and urgent,” pressing Herzog to follow Trump’s suggestion.