Israeli Justice Ministry Declines to Recommend Presidential Pardon for Netanyahu in Corruption Cases
Islamabad: The Justice Ministry’s Pardon Department in Israel has decided not to recommend a presidential pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the corruption cases against him.
According to Hebrew media reports, the Pardon Department of the Ministry of Justice completed its legal opinion and forwarded the document to Isaac Herzog for consideration.
The document was reportedly prepared on the instructions of the justice minister and sent through the minister of culture and heritage, who will complete the formal procedure before presenting it to the presidential office.
In its legal opinion, the department stated that Netanyahu’s request for a pardon does not meet the required legal conditions, making it difficult to grant such relief. The report noted that the corruption case against Netanyahu is still under trial and that he has not yet been convicted.
Additionally, the prime minister did not admit to any wrongdoing or express remorse in his pardon request—both of which are generally considered important conditions for granting an early pardon.
Previously, the Supreme Court of Israel had ruled that a person could be granted a pardon even before sentencing, provided the applicant acknowledges the offense.
However, President Isaac Herzog has earlier stated that any decision on the matter would be made independently and strictly according to the principles of justice, without external pressure.
Background of the Case
In 2019, Israel’s attorney general formally charged Benjamin Netanyahu with bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The trial began in the Tel Aviv District Court in 2020 and has continued through multiple hearings over the past five years.
Although prosecutors have presented various pieces of evidence during the proceedings, Netanyahu has consistently denied all allegations. In 2025, he submitted a formal request for a presidential pardon, which sparked mixed reactions across Israel.
With the Justice Ministry’s Pardon Department now advising against the request, the final decision rests with President Isaac Herzog.
