Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed on Sunday that he would not quit politics if he secured a pardon from the Israeli President in his long-running corruption case, according to Reuters.
Netanyahu’s legal team formally requested in November a pardon from President Isaac Herzog, claiming that the ongoing proceedings were undermining the PM’s ability to govern and that pardon would be in favor of the national interest.
According to the Israeli law, the country typically grants pardons only after the completion of legal proceedings and the conviction of the accused. Hence, there is no precedent for issuing a pardon mid-trial.
Denying Crimes
Netanyahu has consistently denied the bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges. His lawyers sent a letter to the president’s office, emphasizing that he is still confident the legal process will eventually lead to his acquittal.
“My lawyers sent a request for pardon to the president of the country today. I expect that anyone who wishes for the good of the country support this step,” Netanyahu said in a brief video statement.
Meanwhile, Herzog’s office affirmed earlier that it had received the pardon request and released the accompanying letter from Netanyahu’s lawyers.
The presidential office also noted that it will send the request to the Ministry of Justice to collect opinions. Then, these opinions will be reviewed by the president’s legal adviser, who will send a recommendation for Herzog.
Prior to the submission of the PM’s request to the presidential office, US President Donald Trump wrote to Herzog, urging him to consider granting Netanyahu a pardon.
In contrary, Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid stated that Netanyahu should not obtain a pardon without admitting guilt, showing remorse, as well as stepping down from political life.
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