Senator Fetterman Calls Netanyahu’s Pardon “Entirely Appropriate” After Gaza War

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

U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) stated on Tuesday that he supports a pardon for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing it as “entirely appropriate” following the prime minister’s leadership through the Israel–Hamas war and his role in advancing peace efforts.

Fetterman addressed reports that he had sent a letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog urging a pardon for Netanyahu, who is currently on trial in Israel for corruption charges tied to bribery, fraud, and breach of trust from past terms in office. Netanyahu denies the allegations, calling them politically motivated.

While declining to detail his correspondence with Herzog, Fetterman emphasized his full support for a pardon. “I think it’s entirely appropriate for the prime minister to have a pardon,” he said.

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

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

Fetterman also commented on Netanyahu’s recent visit to Florida to meet President Donald Trump, stating the Israeli leader aimed to reinforce ties with Washington. “I think it’s to affirm and to strengthen his relationship with the president,” he said. “That’s smart and that’s necessary.”

The senator reaffirmed his stance against isolating Israel, calling it “our special, special ally.” Fetterman noted his consistent support for Israel, stating, “And I fully support and stand proud with Israel. And that’s never going to change for me.”

Fetterman highlighted strong alignment with Trump on backing Israel, describing their approach as “lockstep.” He also reiterated his commitment to military action against Iran if it resumes nuclear development, emphasizing the need to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

“I don’t care if [it’s] a Democrat or Republican issue,” Fetterman added. “It’s about civilization.”