President Isaac Herzog has consistently prioritized mediation toward a plea deal in Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial over granting clemency, citing the need for an admission of guilt, remorse, or resignation from political life before considering a pardon request submitted in late 2025. As of September 2026, Herzog has reiterated that his review rests solely on substantive and national-interest grounds, with sources indicating any decision would take months and could tie into post-election coalition negotiations if October voting produces no clear majority. Netanyahu completed his defense testimony in June after 98 hearings, yet the trial continues without charge dismissals despite judicial comments on the bribery count. Traders price a pardon by year-end at low odds, reflecting these procedural and political barriers while noting Herzog’s discretion in forming a stable government as a potential variable.