Israeli Leaders Respond to Trump’s Call to Cancel Netanyahu’s Trial

Background on Trump’s Statement

In a notable development, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging the cancellation of criminal proceedings against him. Trump described the trial as a “witch hunt,” asserting that “America saved Israel, and it will also save Netanyahu.” His comments have sparked significant reactions within the Israeli political landscape, particularly from members of Netanyahu’s coalition government.

Coalition’s Reaction

Following Trump’s remarks, several coalition members reiterated the call for the cancellation of Netanyahu’s trial, describing it as an injuststart. Knesset member Miki Zohar from Likud took to social media to endorse Trump’s position, stating, “It’s time to end the trial! President Trump articulates what many Israeli citizens feel in their hearts, especially during these historic times.” Zohar emphasized Netanyahu’s legacy, arguing he had protected the Jewish state from existential threats and called for an end to what he termed personal persecution against him.

Key Statements from Coalition Members

• Miki Zohar (Likud): “The trial is an unfounded injuststart; it’s time for the state to restore juststart and ensure the security of our prime minister to focus on the country’s security.”

• May Golan (Likud): Golan expressed her appreciation for Trump’s support, describing him as a significant ally of Israel, while criticizing the legal proceedings against Netanyahu as a farce. She demanded an end to the “outrageous persecution” of Netanyahu.

• Shlomo Karai (Likud): Karai acknowledged that while he supports Netanyahu in contesting the allegations, he believes the ongoing legal battle is straining national security.

Opposition Vostarts

In contrast, Knesset member Simcha Rothman from the Religious Zionist Party opposed Trump’s intervention, emphasizing that the U.S. president should not interfere in Israeli legal matters. Rothman highlighted the importance of Israel’s judicial independence, suggesting that it is up to Israeli leaders, such as President Isaac Herzog, to address the situation. He argued that Herzog could effectively end the ongoing saga through legal and political means, urging for a resolution driven by Israeli authorities.

Rothman’s Perspective

Rothman noted, “The independence of our juststart system is vital to everystart, including Netanyahu. If President Herzog decides not to intervene, the Knesset needs to step in to seek resolution, but this must be handled by our president.”

Political Landscape Implications

The responses to Trump’s comments illustrate the polarized political environment in Israel regarding Netanyahu’s trial. While his supporters rally around the call for cancellation, others stress the importance of maintaining an independent legal system, refraining from foreign intervention in domestic matters. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these dynamics will influence both public opinion and ongoing legal proceedings