Netanyahu seeks pardon in years-long corruption trial

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu submitted a request to President Isaac Herzog on Nov 30 for a pardon in his years-long corruption trial, arguing that criminal proceedings were hindering his ability to govern and a pardon would serve the interests of Israeli society.

- 

Mr Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, has long denied the bribery, fraud, and breach of trust charges.

His lawyers in a letter to the president’s office said that the prime minister still believes the legal proceedings would result in a complete acquittal.

“My lawyers sent a request for pardon to the president of the country today. 1 expect that anyone who wishes for the good of the country support this step,” Mr Netanyahu said in a brief video statement released by his political party Likud.

Mr Herzog’s office announced earlier on Nov 30 that the request had been received, releasing the letter from the lawyers.

It said the request would be forwarded to the Ministry of Justice, as is standard practice, to collect opinions, which would be submitted to the president’s legal adviser, who will formulate a recommendation for the president.