Trump Vows to "Save" Netanyahu Amid Corruption Trial, Calls for Trial to be Cancelled

Strategic Insights -

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, is facing a corruption trial, with charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. In a surprising move, Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has pledged to "save" Netanyahu, describing him as a "great hero" and "warrior" who is being unfairly targeted by a "witch-hunt". Trump claims that Netanyahu's trial should be cancelled or he should be granted a pardon. This move comes as Netanyahu's cross-examination is set to resume on Monday.

Key Takeaways:

  • Donald Trump has pledged to "save" Benjamin Netanyahu, describing him as a "great hero" and "warrior".
  • Trump claims Netanyahu's trial is a "witch-hunt" and calls for it to be cancelled or for Netanyahu to be granted a pardon.
  • Netanyahu is facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust over three criminal cases.
  • Trump previously used the term "witch-hunt" to describe his own legal battles.
  • Israeli President Isaac Herzog has the power to pardon Netanyahu, but has stated that this is not currently on the table.
  • Trump's intervention comes as Israeli targets are being struck by Iran, and he has previously claimed to have had a ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Iran.

Statistics:

  • Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 and pleaded not guilty after the trial began in 2020.
  • The Israeli PM is alleged to have committed fraud and breach of trust over claims he and his wife Sara received expensive gifts illicitly from a Hollywood media mogul.
  • Netanyahu is accused of fraud and breach of trust over allegedly trying to persuade a newspaper publisher to give him positive coverage in exchange for legislation weakening the newspaper's key rival.
  • Netanyahu is also alleged to have passed legislation which financially benefited a telecommunications giant shareholder in return for more favourable media coverage.

Sources:

  • The former US President Donald Trump's social media post on Truth Social.
  • The Times of Israel.
  • The New York Times.
  • Israeli media.
  • The White House.