Netanyahu requests presidential pardon – DW – 11/30/2025

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Beirut for a three-day visit focused on political talks and interreligious outreach.

The pope said he wanted to bring a message of peace to the region, even as Israel continues attacks on Islamic militias in southern Lebanon and Gaza.

In the Lebanese capital, the Pope met political leaders from the country’s three main religious communities: President Joseph Aoun, a Christian; Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a Shia Muslim; and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, a Sunni Muslim. He planned to address representatives of all political-confessional groups at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the evening.

Monday’s program includes meetings with Maronite believers and clergy, followed by an interfaith prayer meeting with Muslim, Christian and smaller religious leaders. Because Lebanon’s power-sharing system is tied to religious affiliation, such ceremonies also have political significance.

The Maronites are a Christian community belonging to the Catholic Church, based primarily in Lebanon, which has its own ancient liturgy, traditions and hierarchy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally apologized to President Isaac Herzog, a rare step in the country’s political and legal history.

Herzog’s office said Sunday that it had received an “extraordinary request” and that it would be reviewed after gathering all relevant opinions.

Netanyahu, who denies wrongdoing, said he filed the request in the “national interest” as the long-running proceedings were dividing the country. The opposition condemned the move and criticized him for not offering to plead guilty.

Three corruption cases are pending against the Prime Minister. Prosecutors accused him and his wife Sarah of accepting gifts worth more than $260,000 (about €225,000) in exchange for political favors. In two other cases, Netanyahu is accused of seeking favorable media coverage. He denies all the allegations.

Netanyahu said in a video message that the trial has been going on for nearly six years and could continue for several more years. He said he wanted to fight for acquittal but argued that the security and political situation demanded a different approach.

The prime minister said Israel faced “enormous challenges” and warned that continuing the crackdown encourages internal division.

Welcome to DW’s coverage of Gaza, Israel and the broader Middle East.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally apologized to President Isaac Herzog, calling his long-running corruption trial a threat to national unity.

Herzog’s office described the request as “extraordinary” and said it would be carefully reviewed after gathering all relevant opinions.

Netanyahu has denied wrongdoing in three cases involving alleged gifts from billionaires and efforts to gain favorable media coverage.

We’re covering this story and other news from the region, so stay tuned for the latest information.