Netanyahu asks Trump for increased U.S. support for presidential pardon

Netanyahu Seeks Increased U.S. Support for Presidential Pardon

In a significant diplomatic exchange, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in a lengthy phone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, December 1, 2025, during which he requested enhanced American support for his efforts to secure a presidential pardon in Israel. This request was reported by Axios, citing two U.S. officials familiar with the conversation.

Key Details

During the call, Netanyahu expressed his desire for Trump to take a more active role in facilitating the pardon process. Trump, in response, conveyed his belief that the pardon would ultimately be successful but did not commit to any further involvement in the matter. According to one U.S. official, Trump indicated that he had already done what he could to assist Netanyahu in this endeavor.

Contrastingly, an Israeli official claimed that Trump himself initiated the discussion regarding the pardon, suggesting a mutual interest between the two leaders in continuing to address the issue in future conversations. This highlights the ongoing relationship between Netanyahu and Trump, which has been characterized by their shared political interests and strategic alliances.

Background

The context of this request for a pardon is rooted in the complex political landscape of Israel and the historical ties between the United States and Israel. Netanyahu has faced various legal challenges during his tenure, and the prospect of a presidential pardon could significantly impact his political future. The relationship between the two leaders has been closely watched, especially given Trump"s previous support for Netanyahu during his presidency, which included a strong pro-Israel stance on various international issues.

As previously reported, Netanyahu has sought Trump"s backing in other matters, including negotiations with President Isaac Herzog regarding political and legal issues. This ongoing dialogue reflects the intricate dynamics of Israeli politics and the influence of U.S. leadership on these matters.

What"s Next

The implications of this conversation could be significant for both Netanyahu and Trump. Should Netanyahu secure the pardon, it may bolster his political standing in Israel, while also reinforcing Trump"s influence in Israeli affairs. The two leaders have agreed to keep the lines of communication open regarding this issue, suggesting that further discussions may take place in the near future.

As the situation develops, observers will be keen to see how this request for support evolves and what impact it may have on U.S.-Israel relations. The ongoing dialogue between Netanyahu and Trump underscores the importance of their partnership and the potential ramifications for both leaders in the political arena.

For more on Netanyahu"s efforts and the broader context of U.S.-Israel relations, see our previous reports on the subject.