Netanyahu Requests Israeli Presidential Pardon after Decade of Investigations and Trials

JERUSALEM, Israel – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially requested a presidential pardon from Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Sunday. The request is unprecedented, and if granted, would end one of the longest trials in Israel's history. President Herzog's office called it an "extraordinary request," carrying "significant implications." While the prime minister is charged with fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes in three separate cases, he has not yet been convicted of anything. During an address to the nation, Netanyahu did not admit guilt and explained his request. He declared, "Citizens of Israel, nearly a decade has passed since the investigations against me began. The trial has been ongoing for close to six years, and it is expected to continue for many more years."