Herzog Leaves Door Open for Netanyahu Pardon, Cites Need for Plea Deal

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has indicated that he has not ruled out granting a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Netanyahu's case "needs to be concluded, preferably with a plea deal." Herzog revealed in a special interview that he had proposed mediation under the President's Office several months prior, an offer accepted by the Attorney General but not by the Prime Minister's office. "I am leaving the door open," Herzog stated, emphasizing that he believes such a resolution would be timely and important.

Herzog asserted his "unlimited authority" in matters of pardons, while stressing the need to consider the principle of equality before the law and the specific circumstances. He also addressed a meeting with Yaakov Bardugo, a commentator and now a Likud candidate, explaining it was part of an effort to "lower the tension in the nation" during a period of conflict, initiated by a mutual acquaintance. Despite the meeting not immediately reducing tensions, Herzog affirmed his commitment to trying to de-escalate national discourse.

Responding to criticism from former US President Donald Trump regarding his potential actions, Herzog stated, "I am considering only objective considerations. I of course respect Trump very much." He added that Trump often says many things about many people and later reconciles. Herzog also discussed his role in forming the next government, promising to act according to tradition and law to ensure a stable government and avoid further elections, which he believes have left Israel fractured, particularly in light of the October 7th attacks.

Regarding the controversial documentary "Nezar," Herzog expressed strong disapproval, stating he was incensed that it did not mention the October 7th atrocities and that it misrepresented the nature of combat in Gaza. He defended the IDF's operational conduct, highlighting the complex urban battlefield and the existence of internal investigation mechanisms within the military for addressing any potential misconduct.