After US President Donald Trump called him a “disgrace” for not pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog’s office says that he is not dealing with the pardon request during the war with Iran.
“President Herzog greatly respects and appreciates the tremendous contribution of Donald Trump to Israel’s security,” says the President’s Residence in a statement. “He views him as the leader of the free world, a central ally of Israel, and particularly values his firm stance against Iran.”
Herzog’s office reiterates that Israel “is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law,” and as such, the request is currently being dealt with by the Justice Ministry, which will offer its legal opinion, as per the law.
“After the process is completed, the president will examine the request according to the law, the good of the country, and according to his conscience, without any influence from external or internal pressures of any kind,” his office stresses.
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From the Liveblog of
Thursday, March 5, 2026
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