What's happened
Former US President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption trials. Trump, a supporter of Netanyahu, called on Herzog to act, amid tensions over Israel's legal proceedings and US-Israel relations. The story is current as of Sun, 15 Feb 2026.
What's behind the headline?
The public spat between Trump and Herzog underscores the deepening political tensions surrounding Netanyahu’s legal battles. Trump's direct criticism of Herzog, despite Israel's legal independence, reveals an attempt to influence Israeli internal affairs, likely driven by Trump's strong support for Netanyahu. This interference risks damaging Israel’s sovereignty and complicates US-Israel relations, especially as Netanyahu’s trial drags on. The legal process in Israel remains complex, with Herzog emphasizing that a pardon can only be granted after thorough review, highlighting the importance of legal procedures over political pressure. The episode also exposes the fragility of Israel’s political landscape, where external influence from powerful allies can threaten its legal and institutional integrity. Moving forward, Herzog’s decision will test Israel’s rule of law and sovereignty, while Trump’s continued involvement may further polarize Israeli politics and strain diplomatic norms. The international community will watch closely, as this controversy could set a precedent for foreign interference in judicial processes of sovereign states.
How we got here
Trump has been publicly urging Herzog to pardon Netanyahu since mid-2025, citing the legal cases against the Israeli Prime Minister. Netanyahu, facing multiple charges including bribery and fraud, has requested a pardon, which Herzog has yet to decide on, citing legal procedures. Trump’s repeated interventions and the ongoing trial have heightened tensions between the US and Israel, with Trump asserting that Herzog’s refusal to pardon undermines Israeli sovereignty.
Our analysis
The New York Times reports that Trump called Herzog 'disgraceful' for not pardoning Netanyahu and suggested Israelis should shame him, emphasizing Trump's view that Herzog's decision undermines Israeli sovereignty. The Times of Israel highlights that Herzog’s office clarified the legal process is still ongoing, and no decision has been made, despite Trump’s public pressure. Sky News and Al Jazeera detail Trump’s persistent campaign for Netanyahu’s pardon, framing it as part of his broader support for Netanyahu amid ongoing corruption trials. Reuters notes Trump’s criticism came shortly after Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, where discussions about Iran and regional security were also prominent. These contrasting perspectives reveal a narrative where Trump’s intervention is seen by some as political meddling, while others view Herzog’s cautious approach as respecting legal procedures.
More on these topics
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Donald Trump - 45th U.S. President
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Benjamin Netanyahu - Prime Minister of Israel
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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Isaac Herzog - Chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel
Isaac 'Bougie' Herzog is an Israeli politician. He served as a member of the Knesset between 2003 and 2018 and held several ministerial posts, including Minister of Welfare and Social Services.