JERUSALEM October 13, 2025 — During his address to Israel’s Knesset on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to grant a pardon to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently standing trial on corruption charges.
Trump, speaking before Israeli lawmakers and officials, turned to President Herzog and said:
“I have an idea, Mr. President — why don’t you give him a pardon? Cigars and champagne, who the hell cares about that?”
The comments — referring to the gifts at the center of Netanyahu’s corruption case — were not part of Trump’s prepared remarks and drew a mix of applause and surprise from members of the Knesset.
Background on Netanyahu’s Case
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been on trial since 2020, facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Prosecutors allege that he and his wife received luxury items, including cigars and champagne, from wealthy businessmen in exchange for political favors.
Netanyahu has denied all allegations, calling the case politically motivated.
Under Israeli law, the president can issue a pardon only after a conviction has been finalized, and typically under exceptional circumstances. As of now, no verdict has been reached in Netanyahu’s case.
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Trump’s Previous Statements
This is not the first time President Trump has commented on Netanyahu’s trial. In June 2025, he called for the case to be “canceled”, describing the charges as excessive.
During today’s Knesset session, Trump also praised Netanyahu as a “strong leader” and expressed his continued support for Israel’s government.
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📸: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.