Israeli President Isaac Herzog's office moved quickly to clarify the record after President Donald Trump announced that a pardon for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is "on its way," denying any recent conversation between the two leaders on the matter.
"There has been no conversation between President Herzog and President Trump since the pardon request was submitted," Herzog's office stated, pushing back against any implication of direct coordination on the controversial clemency decision.
Trump Signals Support for Key Ally
President Trump's announcement regarding the potential pardon demonstrates his continued strong support for Israel and its embattled prime minister, who has faced years of legal challenges from prosecutors in his home country. Netanyahu has been a stalwart ally of the United States and maintained close ties with Trump during his first administration.
The pardon, if issued, would represent an extraordinary use of executive power on behalf of a foreign leader – a move that underscores the deep alliance between the Trump administration and the Israeli government.
"A pardon is on its way," Trump declared, signaling his intent to use his constitutional authority to shield the Israeli prime minister from potential legal consequences.
Clarification, Not Contradiction
While Herzog's office issued a swift statement, it's important to note that the clarification focused specifically on the timeline of conversations rather than disputing the pardon itself. The Israeli president's role is largely ceremonial, and any pardon discussions would more likely involve diplomatic channels and official government representatives.
The statement appears designed to maintain proper diplomatic protocol rather than to oppose Trump's gesture of support for Netanyahu.
A Strong Alliance Continues
President Trump has consistently positioned himself as Israel's greatest friend in the White House, a stark contrast to the often-tepid support offered by the Biden administration. From recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital to brokering the historic Abraham Accords, Trump's track record on Israeli relations remains unmatched by any modern president.
This latest development signals that the special relationship between Washington and Jerusalem will only strengthen during Trump's second term, with the president willing to take bold action to support America's most important ally in the Middle East.
The situation continues to develop as both governments navigate the diplomatic complexities surrounding the unprecedented pardon announcement.