Haaretz Podcast Trump ‘emboldened’ Netanyahu to seek a pardon: Dahlia Scheindlin on Israel’s latest political bombshell
Dec 2, 2025
Dahlia Scheindlin, a political analyst and senior columnist at Haaretz, dives into Netanyahu's recent request for a pardon related to his corruption trial. She asserts the request is a blatant political threat, suggesting dire consequences if not granted. The discussion also touches on U.S. diplomatic dynamics, particularly Trump's influence, and the risks a pardon poses to legal accountability in Israel. Scheindlin emphasizes the need for the opposition to craft a strategic response to challenge Netanyahu ahead of the upcoming elections.
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Pardon Request As Political Threat
- Netanyahu's pardon request reads like an explicit threat to continue political incitement if not granted.
- Dahlia Scheindlin says Trump emboldened Netanyahu to use a pardon as a political weapon.
Pardon As Distraction Strategy
- The pardon distracts public debate away from Gaza and domestic policy fights like ultra-Orthodox conscription.
- Scheindlin argues Netanyahu prefers debates centered on himself to maintain his electoral base.
Herzog's Consensus Style Can Normalize Extremes
- President Herzog tends to seek compromise and public input, which could produce extreme middle-ground outcomes.
- Scheindlin warns Herzog's mediation approach risks legitimizing extreme positions if he pursues a negotiated pardon.