U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred political tensions in Israel after publicly demanding that the corruption trial of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be immediately canceled. His remarks, made on the social media platform Truth Social, have prompted strong reactions from Israeli political figures, reigniting debate over judicial independence and foreign interference.
Trump Labels Netanyahu’s Trial a “Witch Hunt”
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Netanyahu’s trial as a “witch hunt” against a “great hero” who, in his words, has done more for Israel than most. Calling the ongoing proceedings “unthinkable and unfair,” the former U.S. president suggested that if the case is not dropped, Netanyahu should be granted a presidential pardon.
Trump praised the Israeli leader as a “warrior” and a “faithful servant” of his nation, reiterating the long-standing alliance between the two during his presidency. He emphasized that the United States has historically supported Israel and, in his view, should now support Netanyahu personally as he faces legal challenges.
Fierce Reaction from Israeli Opposition
Trump’s comments have drawn swift criticism from across the Israeli political spectrum. Yair Lapid, leader of the opposition, defended the independence of the Israeli judiciary, stating that “a U.S. president—current or former—has no place interfering in the legal processes of a sovereign nation.”
FILE PHOTO: Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid takes part in a demonstration against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his nationalist coalition government’s judicial overhaul, in Tel Aviv, Israel June 17, 2023. REUTERS/Nir Elias/File Photo
Even within Netanyahu’s governing coalition, voices have emerged pushing back against Trump’s involvement. Simcha Rothman, a far-right figure within the ruling alliance, warned that such external interventions could harm Israel’s international image and credibility.
Netanyahu’s Trial: A Long and Contentious Road
The trial, which began in May 2020, centers on charges of corruption, fraud, and breach of trust. Proceedings have been repeatedly delayed due to armed conflicts in the region, with Netanyahu’s legal team citing national security priorities as grounds for postponement. The Israeli Prime Minister has consistently denied all accusations, claiming the charges are politically motivated.
FILE PHOTO: Demonstrators hold up cutouts of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, which read the word “genocida”, during a protest in support of Palestinians, in Mexico City, Mexico, June 15, 2025. REUTERS/Paola Garcia/File Photo
The legal case has become a deeply polarizing issue in Israel, intertwining with broader political struggles and influencing electoral dynamics.
A Symbiotic Political Message?
Trump’s vocal defense of Netanyahu comes as both leaders face their own legal troubles. Trump has been embroiled in multiple criminal investigations in the U.S., which he similarly labels as politically driven. His support for Netanyahu could be interpreted as an attempt to draw parallels between their situations and galvanize support among like-minded political bases.
The controversy emerges at a critical time for Israel, which is navigating both domestic upheaval and regional instability. Trump’s intervention risks complicating diplomatic relations and undermining confidence in Israel’s judicial institutions, just as its political system faces increased scrutiny.
