Fetterman Labels Netanyahu’s Trial “Ridiculous”, Advocates for Pardon

By Michael Katz    |   Tuesday, 30 December 2025 07:19 PM EST

In a recent interview, Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., said he supports a pardon for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling it “entirely appropriate” after the prime minister led Israel through the Israel–Hamas war and helped bring it to what he described as a moment when peace is again possible.

Fetterman addressed reports that he sent a letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog urging him to pardon Netanyahu, who is on trial in Israel for corruption charges including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust tied to decisions from earlier terms in office.

Netanyahu denies the allegations, calling them politically motivated. Under Israeli law, the president can grant a pardon, though intervening while a trial is underway would be highly unusual.

Fetterman criticized the continuation of the trial amid Israel’s recent security challenges. “The prime minister has led Israel through that awful Gaza war,” he said. “And now look where we are at the other end of all of it. And now peace is possible.”

He called the proceedings a distraction, stating: “Why would you distract our country with this kind of a ridiculous trial? It’s truly absurd to put him through this after everything they’ve accomplished through the last two years.”

Fetterman also noted Netanyahu’s recent visit to Florida to meet with President Donald Trump, saying the Israeli leader’s goal was to reinforce ties with Washington. “I think it’s to affirm and to strengthen his relationship with the president,” he said.

The senator reiterated his support for military action against Iran if it resumes efforts to build a nuclear weapon, stating: “We can never, ever, ever, ever allow Iran to acquire a nuclear bomb.” He added that he supports future strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities if necessary, emphasizing the need for a clear message to the Islamic regime.

Fetterman said he has consistently pushed back against voices in his own party urging distance from Israel, calling it “our special, special ally” and stating: “And I fully support and stand proud with Israel. And that’s never going to change for me.”

He described his alignment with Trump on backing Israel as “lockstep,” adding: “I don’t care if [it’s a] Democrat or Republican issue. It’s about civilization.”