JERUSALEM – In a move that underscores the intense political divisions within Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a formal appeal for a pardon from the nation’s president amidst a high-profile corruption trial.

On Sunday, Netanyahu’s office released a statement confirming that the embattled leader has reached out to the legal department of the Office of the President to seek clemency. The president’s office has described this as an “extraordinary request” with far-reaching implications for the nation.

The prime minister stands as the only current Israeli leader to face trial while in office, dealing with charges that include fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes across three different cases. These allegations center on accusations of him trading political favors with affluent supporters. As of now, no conviction has been made.

This appeal for a pardon follows closely on the heels of a public endorsement from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently urged Israel to consider pardoning Netanyahu.

Netanyahu, in a recorded address, emphasized that his trial has been a source of national discord and suggested that granting a pardon could pave the way for healing the country’s divisions. He also highlighted the challenge of balancing his court appearances—required thrice weekly—with his responsibilities as head of state, stating it hampers his ability to effectively govern.

Netanyahu’s request consisted of two documents — a detailed letter signed by his lawyer and a letter signed by Netanyahu. They’ll be sent to the justice ministry for opinions and will then be transferred to the Legal Advisor in the Office of the President, which will formulate additional opinions for the president.