In a bold statement, Trump calls for an end to Netanyahu’s legal battles while both leaders express military ties.
Trump Urges Pardon for Netanyahu Amidst Corruption Trial
Trump Urges Pardon for Netanyahu Amidst Corruption Trial
Trump voices support for Netanyahu as trial proceeds, prompting criticism
In a recent social media post, former President Donald Trump has urged Israel to "pardon" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amidst his ongoing corruption trial or simply drop the case. As Netanyahu faces serious charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust since 2020, Trump expressed his belief that the U.S. has not only intervened in Israel's conflict with Iran but will also aid in resolving Netanyahu's legal woes.
The prime minister has consistently denied the allegations against him, but opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Trump’s intervention, arguing it undermines the independence of Israel’s legal process. This latest call from Trump follows a period of escalated violence between Israel and Iran, where he previously chastised Israel for military actions against Iran, coinciding with a ceasefire announcement.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump described Netanyahu as a "great hero" and "warrior" who has significantly benefitted Israel, urging for an immediate cancellation of the trial or a presidential pardon for Netanyahu. He afterward noted that the prime minister was set to appear in court soon, reiterating his stance that the charges are part of a “witch hunt” – a term he often uses regarding his own allegations in the U.S.
Critics, including Lapid, speculate that Trump's statement may have ulterior motives linked to ongoing negotiations concerning Gaza, potentially suggesting it as a reward for Netanyahu while also seeking leverage in the region's conflicts. As Netanyahu's trials proceed against the tumultuous backdrop of the resurgence in violence with Hamas following the recent tragedies of October 7, calls for delays in legal proceedings grow, and some suggest this chaos allows Netanyahu to push back elections and prolong his legal engagements.
The prime minister has consistently denied the allegations against him, but opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Trump’s intervention, arguing it undermines the independence of Israel’s legal process. This latest call from Trump follows a period of escalated violence between Israel and Iran, where he previously chastised Israel for military actions against Iran, coinciding with a ceasefire announcement.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump described Netanyahu as a "great hero" and "warrior" who has significantly benefitted Israel, urging for an immediate cancellation of the trial or a presidential pardon for Netanyahu. He afterward noted that the prime minister was set to appear in court soon, reiterating his stance that the charges are part of a “witch hunt” – a term he often uses regarding his own allegations in the U.S.
Critics, including Lapid, speculate that Trump's statement may have ulterior motives linked to ongoing negotiations concerning Gaza, potentially suggesting it as a reward for Netanyahu while also seeking leverage in the region's conflicts. As Netanyahu's trials proceed against the tumultuous backdrop of the resurgence in violence with Hamas following the recent tragedies of October 7, calls for delays in legal proceedings grow, and some suggest this chaos allows Netanyahu to push back elections and prolong his legal engagements.
