Trump asks for Netanyahu pardon in letter to Herzog

While emphasising that he "absolutely respects the independence of the Israeli Justice System", Trump rubbished the charges against Netanyahu as "political, unjustified prosecution".

His letter has met with mixed reactions in Israel, largely along existing political fault lines.

Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called on Herzog to grant the pardon, saying: "The fabricated and disgraceful indictments against Prime Minister Netanyahu have long since turned into an indictment against the prosecution, whose disgrace and crimes are exposed in the trial every day."

In contrast, leftist leader Yair Golan accused Netanyahu of "begging Trump to help him get a pardon", joking: "If he’s struggling to run a country and a trial at the same time, he should resign."

And Netanyahu himself thanked Trump for his "incredible support", adding: "As usual, you get right to the point and call it like it is."

For his part, Herzog emphasised his "great respect" for Trump in his official reply.

But his spokesperson added: "As the president has made clear on multiple occasions, anyone seeking a pardon must submit a formal request in accordance with the established procedures."

Under these procedures, Netanyahu (or an immediate family member) must personally request the pardon, accept his guilt and express remorse for his alleged actions.