Herzog Pushes Dramatic Deal for Netanyahu to Serve Two Years, Resign, and Receive Full Pardon

President Isaac Herzog is reportedly pushing a dramatic behind-the-scenes deal that would see Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu serve the first two years of a rotation government, then resign from political life in exchange for a full pardon. The proposal comes as the election results become clearer, with the double envelope ballots yet to be counted.

This initiative is not new, with Herzog having advocated for a similar arrangement for the past two years, even before the election campaign began. The plan aligns with Herzog's public calls for parties to engage in open-minded discussions. Previously, regarding Netanyahu's legal cases, the President stated he would consider pardon requests with an "open heart and willing soul," implying that a resignation from politics would be a prerequisite.

If this scenario materializes, Netanyahu would reportedly insist on serving the initial two-year term. This would allow him to work alongside U.S. President Donald Trump during his remaining term, an opportunity the article suggests Netanyahu would not want to miss. A significant concern cited is the potential damage to the war's achievements and Israel's operational positions in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and against Iran if a left-wing government reliant on "terror supporters" were to be formed.

Other potential outcomes depend on the final vote count. If the right-wing bloc gains strength, Netanyahu might attempt to sway defectors from the left. The article speculates that individuals like Sharon Sharabi, Shira Shapira, and Elissafeh Peretz would not join a government supported by Arab parties deemed "terror supporters." The remaining options on the table are a minority government backed by the Joint List or a repeat election.