Israel's Netanyahu requests pardon from president over corruption trial

JERUSALEM -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu submitted a formal pardon request to President Isaac Herzog on Sunday, according to a statement from the president's office.

In a letter sent by Netanyahu and his lawyers, a copy of which was seen by Xinhua, Netanyahu stated that he submitted the request "out of public responsibility." He added that ending his trial "will help to reduce the intensity of the flames in the power debate surrounding it."

"Faced with the security challenges and political opportunities currently facing the State of Israel, I am committed to doing everything in my power to heal the rifts, achieve unity among the people, and restore trust in the state's systems," he said.

Herzog's office said the request was submitted to his office's legal department by Netanyahu's lawyers. Herzog said he would consider the rare request "in accordance with the guidelines and procedures."

"The Office of the President is aware that this is an extraordinary request which carries with it significant implications," the statement read.

"After receiving all of the relevant opinions, the President will responsibly and sincerely consider the request," it added.

Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to an indictment filed about six years ago, he is accused of pushing favorable regulations for a telecommunications mogul in exchange for positive media coverage of himself and his family. He is also alleged to have accepted luxury gifts, including cigars and champagne worth tens of thousands of US dollars, from a billionaire Hollywood producer in exchange for assistance with personal matters.

Netanyahu has dismissed the charges as a "witch hunt."