(MENAFN) Israeli President Isaac Herzog has received a letter from his American counterpart, Donald Trump, requesting clemency for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his ongoing corruption trial.

Herzog’s office released an image of the letter signed by Trump, in which the US president urged the Israeli leader “to fully pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been a formidable and decisive wartime prime minister.”

Trump emphasized, “While I absolutely respect the independence of the Israeli Justice System and its requirements, I believe that this ‘case’ against Bibi, who has fought alongside me for a long time, including against the very tough adversary of Israel, Iran, is a political, unjustified prosecution.”

In reply, Herzog’s office noted that anyone seeking a presidential pardon “must submit a formal request in accordance with the established procedures.”

The White House has not immediately confirmed the Israeli statement regarding Trump’s letter.

This is not the first time Trump has urged Herzog to grant Netanyahu clemency; he has made similar appeals multiple times, including during a speech at the Knesset last month.

Under Israeli legislation, the president has the power to pardon offenders or reduce their sentences based on necessary advice or opinions from relevant officials, such as the ministers of justice or defense.

However, the law requires that offenders admit their guilt before a presidential pardon can be granted.

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