Full Breakdown
Herzog Denies Allegations of Pardon Deal with Netanyahu
12/10/2025, 7:45:08 AM
Overview of the Allegations
A recent report by Channel 12, an Israeli television network, has brought to light a confidential 17-page legal opinion from 2019, which allegedly discusses the powers of the Israeli president to grant pardons before a conviction. This report surfaced following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's request for a pardon from President Isaac Herzog amid his ongoing corruption trial. The report insinuated that Herzog had previously prepared a deal to support a pardon for Netanyahu in exchange for political backing during his presidential campaign.
President Herzog's Response
In response to the allegations, Herzog's office firmly denied any involvement in a pardon deal with Netanyahu, labeling the report as "unfounded and outrageous." Herzog's representatives stated that there was never any agreement linking Herzog's presidency to Netanyahu's legal issues. They emphasized that anyone claiming otherwise risks legal action. Herzog's office clarified that the legal opinion was requested by Motti Sander, a former campaign manager, acting in a personal capacity, and that Herzog had no knowledge of the document until it was published.
Legal Context of the Allegations
The legal opinion, prepared by attorney Eyal Rozovsky, examined whether a president could grant a pre-conviction pardon and the necessary legal frameworks for such an action. It noted that while the president has broad clemency powers, any early pardon in a political context would require cooperation from legal authorities, particularly the attorney general, and would ultimately be subject to the High Court of Justice's decision. The report referenced the Bus 300 affair, where a previous president pardoned officials before they were convicted, as a precedent for such actions.
Netanyahu's Legal Troubles
Netanyahu faces serious charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, stemming from allegations of manipulating the press and receiving illicit gifts. He has consistently denied wrongdoing, claiming that the charges are part of a politically motivated coup. His trial, which began in May 2020, is expected to continue for several more years, according to analysts.
Criticism and Opposition
The allegations and subsequent denial have sparked discussions about the integrity of political dealings in Israel. Critics argue that the mere suggestion of a pardon deal raises concerns about the intertwining of political power and legal accountability. Opposition figures have called for Netanyahu's resignation throughout the trial, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethical governance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There was never any agreement, understanding or acknowledgment between President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu linking Herzog’s tenure to Netanyahu’s legal proceedings, neither explicitly or implicitly,” — Herzog's Office
- “Mr. Sander apparently asked for the legal opinion, having for years tried to push a plea bargain and pardon for Prime Minister Netanyahu,” — Herzog's Office
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the alleged pardon deal highlights the complex relationship between political power and legal proceedings in Israel. As President Herzog navigates these allegations, the implications for Netanyahu's ongoing trial and the broader political landscape remain significant.
