The Israeli President, Isaac Herzog, does not intend to grant a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but will instead seek to begin a mediation process aimed at reaching a deal between prosecutors and Netanyahu, under which he would admit to the charges against him.
Herzog is said to believe there are several options beyond granting or refusing a pardon. He views his main role as strengthening unity in Israeli society, which has been divided over Netanyahu’s corruption trial. He prefers resolving the issue through negotiations, according to The New York Times, citing two Israeli senior officials familiar with his position.
In a statement issued by the Israeli presidency following the report, Herzog’s office said: “President Isaac Herzog has stated on several occasions that he regards reaching an amicable solution between the parties as an important public interest. As for the decision on the pardon request, the president will act solely in accordance with Israeli law, guided by his conscience, and in the best interests of the state of Israel.”
