‘Israel’ President Herzog seeks plea deal for Netanyahu
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'Israeli' President Isaac Herzog does not intend to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the near future, opting instead to push for a mediated plea deal between the premier and state prosecutors, according to a report by the New York Times on Sunday.
Citing two senior ‘Israeli’ officials, the report indicates that Herzog views a negotiated settlement as the primary path toward national unity, rather than a unilateral presidential pardon.
Prioritizing Consensus over Pardons
The President’s Office confirmed this stance in a statement to The Jerusalem Post, noting that Herzog believes an agreement outside the courtroom is the "proper and appropriate resolution" to the long-standing legal battle.
"The President believes that before addressing the pardon request itself, efforts should first be exhausted to reach an agreement between the parties," the statement said.
'Painful Issue' in Public Life
Netanyahu, who has been on trial for nearly six years on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, formally submitted a pardon request in November.
Herzog has characterized the trial as an "open wound" in 'Israeli' civic life, telling the Post last year that he would "fully welcome" talks to resolve the case via a plea bargain.
Key points of Herzog's position include:
- National Interest: Herzog stated his only consideration regarding the request would be "the good of the state."
- Legal Distinction: Unlike a pardon, which Herzog can grant unilaterally, a plea deal requires a signed agreement between Netanyahu’s defense and the prosecution.
- Exhausting Mediation: The President aims to foster a consensus before utilizing his executive powers, despite pressure from ministers to "move the needle" immediately.
While Herzog holds the power to grant pardons, the process typically follows a completed legal proceeding. By pushing for a plea deal, Herzog is attempting to navigate a middle path that avoids further "tearing at the country’s already-frayed civic fabric" while ensuring a resolution that both legal parties can accept.
