Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Requests Pardon in Corruption Trial, Drawing Strong Reactions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested a pardon from President Herzog during his historic corruption trial for fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, drawing mixed reactions.
Overview
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the first sitting PM to face trial, formally requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog amidst his ongoing corruption trial for fraud, breach of trust, and bribery.
- Legal experts unanimously confirm that Netanyahu's pardon request will not halt or impact his corruption trial, as pardons are rarely granted in Israel before a conviction.
- The pardon request has elicited strong reactions, with opposition politicians expressing indignation, while some Israelis and government ministers show support, urging the nation to move forward.
- Netanyahu denies all corruption allegations, labeling the case a "witch hunt" and presenting himself as a victim of a "deep state" conspiracy, while consistently seeking trial delays.
- Many Israelis, including hostage parents, are angered by trial delays, and opponents warn that granting a pardon could potentially undermine Israel's democratic institutions and unity.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the story neutrally, focusing on factual reporting of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's pardon request. They present a balanced array of perspectives, including his rationale, opposition arguments, and legal expert opinions, without employing loaded language or selective emphasis to sway reader perception.
"The request was met with indignation Sunday by opposition politicians and government watchdogs, but some Israelis signaled support and indicated it is time to move on."
Chicago Tribune"The request was met with indignation Sunday by opposition politicians and government watchdogs, but some Israelis signaled support and indicated it is time to move on."
Associated Press"The request for a pardon has sparked significant controversy and division within the country, highlighting the contentious nature of Netanyahu's legal battles."
CBS News"Netanyahu has consistently denied the allegations, branding them a “witch hunt.”"
NBC News"Netanyahu's lawyers argued that criminal proceedings against him had deepened societal divisions and that ending the trial was necessary for national reconciliation."
USA TODAY"Netanyahu has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and branded the trial as a "witch-hunt" by political opponents."
BBC News"Netanyahu's request sparked an immediate response from the opposition and advocacy groups, which urged the president not to give in to his request."
Associated PressArticles (18)
Center (7)
FAQ
No, a presidential pardon in Israel cannot stop or impact an ongoing trial. Pardons are typically only considered after a conviction, and legal experts agree that Netanyahu's request will not halt his trial.
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in three separate cases related to his relationships with Israeli businessmen and media figures.
Reactions have been mixed. Opposition politicians are indignant, warning that a pardon could undermine democratic institutions, while some Israelis and government ministers support the request, urging national unity.
No, Netanyahu has not admitted guilt. He continues to deny all allegations, calling the trial a 'witch hunt' and a 'deep state' conspiracy.
Granting a pardon before a conviction would be highly unusual in Israel and could set a controversial precedent, potentially undermining public trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
History
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