Netanyahu's Legal Battle: A Nation Divided

Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced that a pardon request for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be contemplated only after fully exploring plea deal possibilities, prolonging an ongoing legal saga that has deeply divided Israeli society.

Netanyahu, who faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, remains embroiled in a trial that began in 2020. Herzog believes that negotiations outside the courtroom are essential before proceeding with pardon discussions, hinting that any conclusion may take time.

Despite pressure, including from former U.S. President Donald Trump, Herzog's approach underscores the unprecedented complexity of pardoning a sitting prime minister mid-trial, with Netanyahu's legal challenges dominating Israeli politics for years.

(With inputs from agencies.)