Trump calls for Netanyahu’s corruption trial to be cancelled

U.S. President Donald Trump has called for the dismissal of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial, characterising it as politically motivated while acknowledging Netanyahu’s leadership during recent conflicts.

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Israel to cancel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial, calling the charges politically driven and unworthy of someone he described as a “great wartime hero.”

Writing on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, Trump said he was “shocked” that Israel was continuing what he termed a “ridiculous witch hunt” against Netanyahu, whom he praised for leading the country through one of its most challenging periods. He referred to Netanyahu as a “warrior” who had fought against Iran, calling the outcome a significant military success for Israel.

Trump criticised the Israeli judiciary for proceeding with the trial, which he said involved trivial allegations, such as “cigars, a Bugs Bunny doll, and numerous other unfair charges.” He asserted that Netanyahu “deserves much better than this,” and argued that Israel’s justice system should either cancel the trial or issue a pardon.

He further claimed that “the United States of America that saved Israel” would now do the same for Netanyahu, adding that the situation amounted to a “travesty of justice.”

Netanyahu faces three separate corruption cases filed in 2019—Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000—centred on allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He has denied all charges, calling them politically motivated and without merit. His trial, which began in May 2020, marks the first time a sitting Israeli prime minister has appeared in court as a criminal defendant.

Under Israeli law, Netanyahu is not required to step down unless convicted by the Supreme Court, a process that could extend over months or years.

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