Israel's President Isaac Herzog has received a letter from US President Donald Trump formally urging him to fully pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu has been standing trial for the past five years on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in connection with three separate cases. He has denied any wrongdoing.
In the letter, Trump states that he absolutely respects the independence of Israel's justice system, but believes Netanyahu is facing a political, unjustified prosecution.
Herzog's office has noted that he holds Trump in the highest regard, but clarified that anyone seeking a pardon must submit a formal request.
No immediate comment has been made by Netanyahu, although he has previously thanked Trump for his support.
The charges against Netanyahu include allegations of receiving gifts from powerful businessmen in exchange for favors, attempting to improve the circulation of a newspaper for favorable coverage, and promoting regulatory decisions for favorable media treatment.
Trump's remarks came in light of his attempts to broker peace in the region, and he has now reiterated these sentiments by sending a formal request to Herzog. Herzog’s office, while appreciative of Trump's support, has highlighted the procedures involved in seeking a pardon, indicating that formal requests are necessary.
Controversy continues to surround Netanyahu's trial, with various political figures across the spectrum expressing their views on the matter. Supporters within the far-right consider his trial an indictment of the prosecution itself, while opposition figures argue strongly for the integrity of the judicial process.
