Netanyahu dropped a pardon request with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to dodge corruption charges hanging over him since way back, and Trump even chimed in, pushing for it during a Knesset session. The prime minister filed a massive 111-page document through his lawyer Amit Hadad, claiming he needs to drop the legal drama and focus on running the country during what he calls a critical moment for Israel. He says clearing his schedule would help him push peace talks forward and deal with internal political beef.
The whole thing is sketchy because Israeli law typically reserves pardons for people already convicted, and legal experts say you need to admit guilt before getting one. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said Netanyahu can't just walk away without confessing and stepping down from politics. The most serious charge against him involves allegedly giving regulatory favors worth over $250 million to a telecom buddy in exchange for positive press coverage.
The whole thing is sketchy because Israeli law typically reserves pardons for people already convicted, and legal experts say you need to admit guilt before getting one. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said Netanyahu can't just walk away without confessing and stepping down from politics. The most serious charge against him involves allegedly giving regulatory favors worth over $250 million to a telecom buddy in exchange for positive press coverage.
