Herzog Says Netanyahu Trial Hurts Israeli Society and Requires a Legal Solution

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed the political and legal storm surrounding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial, stating that it is having a “very negative” impact on Israeli society and that a solution must be found but only in full accordance with Israeli law.

Herzog emphasized that while the president does have constitutional authority to grant pardons even before conviction any such decision will be made solely by him, based on legal procedure and personal conscience. “Israel has a sovereign judiciary,” he said, making clear that the country’s legal processes will not be influenced by political pressure or speculation.

The comments come after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that a pardon for Netanyahu was “on the way” and implied that Herzog had already agreed to it during recent conversations. However, the Israeli President’s Residence flatly denied that any such conversation had taken place since the formal pardon request was filed in November 2025. While a representative of Trump reportedly inquired about the process, officials clarified that the response was strictly procedural.

“A final decision has not been made,” Herzog stated. “It will be made based on Israeli law, on my conscience, and the established professional review.”

Under Israel’s Basic Law, the president may issue pardons even before a conviction though this is highly uncommon and typically reserved for exceptional humanitarian or rehabilitative cases. Legal experts have cautioned that granting clemency prior to a court ruling could undermine public trust and set a controversial precedent.

Netanyahu’s legal team submitted the pardon request amid ongoing legal proceedings on charges that include bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The prime minister denies all allegations and claims the trial is politically motivated. Yet even many of his supporters are now debating whether a resolution is needed for the good of the country, as the trial drags on with no clear end in sight.

Herzog did not indicate a specific timeline for the decision but acknowledged the societal toll. “This issue is affecting the national atmosphere and the public’s faith in institutions. We must find a legal and moral path forward,” he said.

His remarks at Davos reflect a growing consensus that the uncertainty surrounding the prime minister’s legal status is impacting Israeli governance, unity, and global perception.

Israel remains a democracy governed by the rule of law. Its strength lies in its ability to navigate even the most sensitive internal challenges with integrity and transparency.

For more updates on Israeli leadership and legal affairs, share this article or subscribe to our newsletter.