Israeli PM Netanyahu says he will not quit politics if he receives a pardon
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Lawyers for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu argue that his frequent court appearances were hindering his ability to govern.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Dec 7 that he would not retire from politics if he received a pardon from the country’s president in his years-long corruption trial.
Asked by a reporter if he planned on retiring from political life if granted a pardon, Mr Netanyahu replied: “No.”
Mr Netanyahu in November asked President Isaac Herzog for a pardon
In Israel, pardons are typically granted only after legal proceedings have concluded and the accused has been convicted; there is no precedent for issuing a pardon mid-trial.
Mr Netanyahu has repeatedly denied wrongdoing in response to charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, and his lawyers have said that he still believes the legal proceedings, if concluded, would result in a complete acquittal.
US President Donald Trump wrote to Mr Herzog, before Mr Netanyahu made his request, urging him to consider granting the Prime Minister a pardon.
Some Israeli opposition politicians have argued that any pardon should be conditional on Mr Netanyahu retiring from politics and admitting guilt. Others have said he must first call national elections, which are due by October 2026. REUTERS
