Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has cautioned former U.S. President Donald Trump against meddling in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial. The warning followed Trump’s public demand for the case to be scrapped, describing it as a “witch hunt” and suggesting Netanyahu deserved a pardon after Israel’s 12-day war with Iran.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed the Israeli leader was being unfairly targeted and urged authorities to either cancel the case or grant him a pardon, calling Netanyahu a “Great Hero.” The remarks sparked backlash among Israeli politicians across party lines.
Lapid, speaking to Israeli news outlet Ynet, expressed appreciation for Trump’s past support but made it clear that judicial matters in Israel should remain untouched by foreign leaders. He emphasized that interference from a former U.S. president in a domestic legal process was inappropriate.
Simcha Rothman, a Netanyahu ally from the Religious Zionism party and chair of the Knesset’s judicial committee, agreed that Trump should avoid intervening. However, Rothman criticized the way Netanyahu’s case is being handled, saying it damages Israel’s global image and reduces it to that of a “banana republic.”
Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir also weighed in, arguing the trial was driven by politics rather than justice. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar echoed Trump’s sentiment, calling the trial unfair and urging its suspension, especially during the ongoing military conflict.
Netanyahu, who returned to power in late 2022, is facing three separate corruption cases. One accuses him and his wife of receiving over $260,000 in luxury gifts from wealthy businessmen. The other two cases involve alleged efforts to influence media coverage in his favor.
The trial, which began in May 2020, has seen repeated delays, including Netanyahu’s recent requests for postponement due to the Gaza conflict, clashes in Lebanon, and the war with Iran. He has consistently denied all charges and maintains his innocence.
