Herzog Pushes Dramatic Deal for Netanyahu to Resign in Exchange for Pardon
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
President Isaac Herzog is reportedly proposing a deal for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to serve two more years in a rotation government and then retire from politics in exchange for a full pardon. The President's office has denied the report, calling it "complete fake news." The proposal aims to prevent a government reliant on parties deemed hostile and leverage potential time with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- President Isaac Herzog is reportedly pushing a deal for PM Netanyahu to serve two years and then retire for a full pardon.
- Netanyahu would reportedly serve first in a rotation government to work with U.S. President Donald Trump.
- The proposal aims to prevent a government reliant on parties considered hostile to Israel's security.
- The President's office has denied the report, calling it "complete fake news."
- The deal is contingent on final election results and could be replaced by other scenarios.
President Isaac Herzog is reportedly pushing a dramatic behind-the-scenes deal that would see Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu serve for two more years in a rotation government, then retire from politics in exchange for a full pardon. The proposal comes as the election results become clearer, but before all ballots are counted.
Sources suggest this plan has been advocated by Herzog for two years and is seen as the most realistic option if current mandate projections hold. The deal aligns with Herzog's calls for open dialogue and his previous statements about considering pardon requests with an open mind, provided the politician steps down. Netanyahu would reportedly insist on serving first in the rotation to work alongside U.S. President Donald Trump during his remaining term.
Behind the proposal is a fear of a "left-wing government" reliant on "terror supporters," which proponents argue would negate war achievements and lead to withdrawal from Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran. Other potential outcomes depend on the final vote count, including Netanyahu attempting to sway defectors from the left bloc if the right gains more mandates, or forming a minority government with Arab support, or new elections.
The President's office has vehemently denied the report, calling it "complete fake news" and stating they are not engaging in speculation. They emphasized that official election results will only be submitted next Wednesday, after which the President will hold consultations and make decisions according to his legal authority.
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