Trump Demands End to Netanyahu Corruption Trial, Calls It Politically Motivated
Amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the recent Iran-Israel conflict, former U.S. President Donald Trump has launched a scathing critique of the ongoing corruption trial against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Taking to his platform, Truth Social, Trump called the proceedings a “witch hunt” and insisted that the charges are unjust and politically motivated.
Netanyahu, who in December became the first Israeli Prime Minister to testify in his own criminal trial, faces allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust across three separate cases. He has consistently denied all charges.
“I was shocked to hear that the State of Israel, which has just had one of its Greatest Moments in History, is continuing its ridiculous Witch Hunt against their Great War Time Prime Minister,” Trump wrote. He praised Netanyahu for his leadership during the recent hostilities with Iran, claiming that “anybody else would have suffered losses, embarrassment, and chaos.”
Trump also expressed disbelief that Netanyahu had been summoned back to court this week, calling it a “horror show” and a national disgrace. “Such a WITCH HUNT, for a man who has given so much, is unthinkable to me. He deserves much better than this,” he added, demanding that the trial be canceled immediately or that Netanyahu be granted a presidential pardon by Israeli authorities.
The charges against Netanyahu, originally filed in 2019, include allegations that he and his wife received lavish gifts—such as cigars and champagne—from wealthy businessmen in return for political favors. One case also accuses Netanyahu of colluding with media executives to ensure favorable coverage in exchange for legislative support that would harm rival publications.
The trial has faced repeated delays due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and later in Lebanon. As of early June, a Tel Aviv court began Netanyahu’s cross-examination, which is expected to last nearly a year.
While Israeli President Isaac Herzog holds the constitutional authority to pardon Netanyahu, local media reports suggest a pardon is not currently being considered. The extent of U.S. influence over this legal process remains uncertain, although Trump vowed, “It was the United States that saved Israel, and now it will be the United States that saves Bibi Netanyahu.”
The dramatic remarks highlight the intersection of political loyalty, international diplomacy, and legal accountability in one of Israel’s most high-profile court cases to date.
