‘I don’t want to see him in jail': Bennett backs Netanyahu pardon if he quits politics – interview

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett suggested in an interview with The Jerusalem Post that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should receive a pardon for his ongoing criminal trial, provided he retires from politics. Bennett stated, "I don't want to see him in jail. I think he should go home," believing this would allow Israel to prioritize national security. He emphasized that Netanyahu's departure would offer Israel "an opportunity for a renaissance" and help unite the country. Bennett also attributed responsibility for the October 7 Hamas massacre to Netanyahu's strategy of "feeding Hamas." Netanyahu, who denies all charges, is currently on trial for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, and formally requested a presidential pardon in November 2025.