Accra: US President Donald Trump, in a bold move during his address to the Israeli parliament on Monday, called for a pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges.

According to Ghana News Agency, Netanyahu has been embroiled in a lengthy legal battle, having been on trial for several years over allegations that include accepting luxury gifts from billionaire associates. Trump’s comments came as a surprise to many, especially as he openly expressed admiration for both Netanyahu and Israeli President Isaac Herzog, suggesting that Herzog consider pardoning the embattled prime minister.

During his speech, Trump praised Netanyahu’s leadership during wartime, dismissing the corruption allegations as trivial by questioning, “Who the hell cares?” This stance has added fuel to the ongoing public debate in Israel regarding the potential pardon of Netanyahu, a topic that has deeply divided the nation.

President Isaac Herzog, who has previously maintained that no one is above the law, has not ruled out the possibility of a pardon but insists on acting according to his conscience. Netanyahu, on his part, has consistently denied the allegations, labeling the trial as a “witch hunt.”

The trial, which has stretched over five years, accuses Netanyahu of accepting expensive gifts such as jewelry, cigars, and pink champagne, valued at approximately £174,000 ($201,300). Despite the mounting evidence, Netanyahu remains steadfast in his denial of any wrongdoing.