Herzog Responds to Trump Call for Netanyahu Pardon

President Isaac Herzog responded firmly but diplomatically on Thursday to public calls by U.S. President Donald Trump for him to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizing Israel’s sovereignty and his own constitutional role.

Trump’s remarks came during a White House event, where he criticized Herzog for not granting Netanyahu a pardon. “I think the people of Israel should really shame him,” Trump said. “He’s disgraceful for not giving it. He should give it.”

The comments reached Herzog mid-flight as he was returning from a four-day diplomatic visit to Australia. The president was reportedly informed by aides while aboard a commercial aircraft and immediately convened his staff to craft a formal response at cruising altitude.

In a statement issued from the plane, the President’s Residence confirmed that a pardon request for Netanyahu is indeed under review by the Justice Ministry. Only after that legal process is complete, it said, will Herzog decide whether to intervene.

“Only after the process is concluded will the president examine the request in accordance with the law, the good of the state, and his conscience and without any influence from external or internal pressures of any kind,” the statement read.

Herzog also acknowledged Trump’s strong record of support for Israel, stating that he “appreciates President Trump for his significant contribution to the State of Israel and its security.” But he underscored that Israel is a “sovereign state governed by the rule of law.”

Pressed by a reporter accompanying the flight for his personal view, Herzog responded with understated clarity “To the best of my recollection, I am the president of Israel.”

Herzog has faced repeated questions about the possibility of a pardon for Netanyahu, who remains entangled in long-running legal proceedings. Throughout his trip to Australia, Herzog maintained that the matter is under review and will be handled “according to the recognized practice.”

The comments from Trump highlight the complicated intersection of politics, law, and diplomacy. While the former U.S. president continues to champion Netanyahu’s cause, Herzog’s response affirmed that Israeli law and institutional integrity not external pressure will guide the process.

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