Trump’s Stinging Attack on Israel’s President Touches a Nerve

Former U.S. President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not yet pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his ongoing corruption trial. Trump called Herzog "disgraceful" and suggested Israelis should shame him. This intervention into Israeli affairs and the insulting tone sparked a rare public disagreement between the allies. Herzog's office responded, clarifying that the pardon request was still under review and would be considered without external pressure. While acknowledging Trump's contributions to Israel, Herzog emphasized Israel's sovereignty and rule of law. The incident occurred after Trump met with Netanyahu at the White House, leading to speculation, denied by Netanyahu's aides, that the Prime Minister prompted Trump's remarks.

President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not yet pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his corruption trial. The criticism was made during a press conference at the White House on Thursday, with Trump calling Herzog "disgraceful" and stating that Israel's people should shame him for not granting Netanyahu a pardon. This sparked a rare public spat between allies over the honor of the Israeli president. Herzog's office later clarified that he had not yet reached a decision regarding a pardon and was reviewing the matter by the Ministry of Justice. Trump had previously met with Netanyahu at the White House on Wednesday, fueling speculation about the prime minister's involvement in the criticism.