Israeli President Herzog Leaves Pardon for Netanyahu on Table, Urges Plea Deal

President Isaac Herzog has indicated that he has not ruled out granting a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Netanyahu's legal case "needs to be concluded, preferably with a plea deal." Herzog revealed that he had proposed mediation under the auspices of the President's Residence several months ago, an offer accepted by the Attorney General but to which no response was received from the Prime Minister's office. Herzog emphasized his "unlimited authority" in matters of pardon, stressing that any decision would consider the principle of equality before the law and the specific circumstances.

Herzog also addressed his recent meeting with Yaakov Bardugo, a Channel 14 commentator and Likud candidate, explaining it was part of an initiative to "lower the tension in the nation" during a period of conflict. He acknowledged the meeting did not immediately reduce tensions but reiterated his commitment to trying to de-escalate societal divisions and stated he is not afraid to think differently from others.

Responding to criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his stance on Netanyahu's potential pardon, Herzog stated, "The United States is a sovereign country. I will only consider objective considerations. I certainly respect Trump very much." He added that Trump often makes strong statements and later reconciles, noting his own frequent interactions with the former president.

Looking ahead to the formation of a government, Herzog pledged to act according to tradition and law, aiming for a stable government to avoid further election cycles that have "torn us apart." He stressed that his actions would depend on the election results and the recommendations of the parties, but he would be actively involved in facilitating the formation of a government, even in the event of an electoral deadlock.

Finally, Herzog commented on the controversial documentary "Nezar," expressing his dismay that it allegedly omits the atrocities of October 7th and misrepresents the nature of combat in Gaza. He criticized the film for not acknowledging the Hamas attacks and for portraying the battlefield inaccurately, stating that there are established mechanisms within the IDF for investigating complaints about the use of force.