President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, December 29, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida.Image: keystone
February 15, 2026, 12:45 p.mFebruary 15, 2026, 12:45 p.m
A verbal attack by US President Donald Trump against Israeli President Izchak Herzog is causing tension in Israel. Trump told reporters at the White House that Herzog should be “ashamed” because he had not yet pardoned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was accused of corruption. The head of government had at least achieved extraordinary things in times of war, explained the US President.
Clarification from the President’s Office
The Israeli president’s office then made it clear that, contrary to what Trump said, Herzog had not yet made a decision on the pardon issue. The request, which Netanyahu made in November, is still being examined by the Ministry of Justice in accordance with established procedures.
Israeli President Izchak Herzog has not yet pardoned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was accused of corruption.Image: keystone
Emphasis on the rule of law and sovereignty
Only after this process has been completed will the President consider the application “in accordance with the law, in the best interests of the State of Israel, guided by his conscience and without any external or internal pressure,” it said. Herzog deeply appreciates Trump for his support of the Jewish state. However, Israel is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law.
Speculation after Trump-Netanyahu meeting
Shortly before Trump’s attack against Herzog, the US President met Netanyahu in the White House. According to media reports, Herzog’s office has therefore requested explanations about whether Netanyahu encouraged Trump to make his comments against the Israeli president.
Denial from Netanyahu’s environment
It was then reported from circles around Netanyahu that Trump’s demand for a pardon was solely at the initiative of the US President himself. “The Prime Minister found out about this from the media and knew nothing about it in advance,” it continued.
Netanyahu had officially asked Herzog for a pardon in a letter. It is unclear when the president will make a decision on this. A corruption trial has been ongoing against the head of government for more than five years. He is charged with fraud, breach of trust and bribery. Trump had repeatedly called on Herzog to pardon Netanyahu. (sda/dpa)