Overview
- Trump criticized Herzog at the White House for not pardoning Netanyahu, one day after hosting the prime minister for a three-hour meeting.
- Herzog’s office expressed anger, framed the remarks as an affront to Israeli sovereignty, and sought to learn whether Netanyahu encouraged U.S. intervention.
- Netanyahu’s office denied any involvement, stating Trump acted on his own initiative and that the prime minister learned of the comments from media reports.
- Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara clarified she has not reviewed the pardon file and said it will proceed through established Ministry of Justice and prosecutorial channels before reaching the president.
- The President’s Residence reiterated that Herzog has made no decision and will consider the matter only after legal review, while Netanyahu’s corruption trial on bribery, fraud, and breach-of-trust charges continues.