Thu Jun 26 01:21:08 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly called for Israel to either pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or halt his ongoing trial on corruption charges. Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, which he denies. The trial began in 2020 and involves three criminal cases. Trump described the case as a “witch hunt” and alluded to the U.S.’s past support for Israel, implying they should intervene in Netanyahu’s legal troubles. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has the power to pardon Netanyahu but hasn’t indicated he will.

**News Article:**

**Trump Urges Israel to Pardon or Halt Netanyahu’s Corruption Trial**

*Washington, D.C. – June 26, 2025* – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited controversy with a public call for Israel to either pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or immediately cancel his ongoing corruption trial. Trump voiced his support for Netanyahu, referring to him as a “Great Hero” and echoing his frequent claim that the case is a “witch hunt.”

Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 on charges including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, allegations he vehemently denies. The trial, which began in 2020, involves three separate criminal cases. Cross-examination of Netanyahu began earlier this month and is expected to continue for approximately a year.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Bibi Netanyahu’s trial should be CANCELLED, IMMEDIATELY, or a Pardon given to a Great Hero, who has done so much for the State (of Israel).”

Trump also alluded to past U.S. support for Israel, particularly U.S. involvement and support for Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear program and suggested the United States should intervene in the legal matter. “It was the United States of America that saved Israel, and now it is going to be the United States of America that saves Bibi Netanyahu.”

While Israeli President Isaac Herzog possesses the authority to issue a pardon, Israeli media outlets report that he has stated a pardon is not currently being considered, and no request has been made.

Trump’s comments have sparked debate on the potential for foreign influence in Israeli legal proceedings and further polarized opinions on the ongoing Netanyahu trial.

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