Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has submitted an official request for his pardon to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, the Israeli president’s office has said.
“The Office of the President is aware that this is an extraordinary request which carries with it significant implications. After receiving all of the relevant opinions, the president will responsibly and sincerely consider the request,” Mr Herzog’s office said.
Mr Netanyahu has been facing a long-running corruption trial.
He denies the charges and has pleaded not guilty.
In a video message this morning, he said that the ending of his corruption trial immediately would advance much needed national reconciliation.
“The continuation of the trial is tearing us apart from within, arousing fierce divisions, intensifying rifts,” he said, referring to the split between his supporters and opponents.
“I am certain, like many others in the nation, that an immediate end to the trial will greatly help to lower the flames and promote the broad reconciliation that our country so desperately needs.”
US President Donald Trump wrote to Mr Herzog earlier this month asking him to pardon Mr Netanyahu.