Israeli President Isaac Herzog clarifies no decision yet on Netanyahu's pardon request

On Thursday, February 12, 2026, the office of Israeli President Isaac Herzog issued a statement clarifying that no decision has been reached regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's request for a pardon. This announcement follows public comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested Herzog should be ashamed for not granting the request. The presidential office noted that the request is currently being reviewed by the Ministry of Justice for a formal legal opinion, in accordance with established procedures. Benjamin Netanyahu is currently facing criminal prosecution on corruption charges. Once the legal review process is finalized, President Herzog will evaluate the request based solely on the interests of the State of Israel. The statement emphasized that the president's decision will not be influenced by any form of internal or external pressure. Donald Trump reiterated his stance on Thursday, maintaining that the Israeli Prime Minister deserves to be pardoned. The clarification aims to correct the impression of a final decision created by Trump's remarks.