Trump claims Netanyahu pardon would make Israeli president 'national hero'

President Trump is renewing his pressure campaign on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Trump told Axios that Herzog could become a “national hero” by granting the pardon. “He will be a national hero if he gives Bibi a pardon. I will very much appreciate it,” Trump said.

The issue arose during a Tuesday night call between Trump and Netanyahu. Instead of focusing on the war with Iran, Netanyahu mentioned his ongoing corruption trial and upcoming court appearance on Wednesday. “In the middle of a war? Give me a break,” Trump said.

Trump argued that the trial makes Israel “look bad.” He dismissed the charges against Netanyahu as “wine and cigars” and stressed, “Bibi is a wartime prime minister. He can't have this hanging over his head.”

Trump has pushed for Netanyahu’s pardon since last June, repeatedly calling the long-running case a “witch hunt.”

Israeli President Herzog recently invited Netanyahu’s lawyers, the attorney general, and state prosecutor to begin plea deal negotiations. He stated he will not decide on a pardon until those talks are exhausted.

Netanyahu has refused to admit any wrongdoing or express remorse — two key conditions for receiving a pardon under Israeli law.