Ex-justice minister Ramon states Netanyahu has 'zero possibility' of getting pardon

Nearly every discussion revolves around whether it benefits Netanyahu or harms him, he noted. The substance of the issue is irrelevant.

Former Justice Minister Haim Ramon has dismissed the notion of a presidential pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asserting that the only viable solution to Israel's political deadlock is Netanyahu stepping away from public office. Speaking on 103FM with Prof. Aryeh Eldad and Anat Davidov, Ramon rejected the likelihood of any conditions tied to a potential pardon being met.

There is no possibility that Netanyahus desired conditions will be fulfilled, Ramon stated. The core division in this trial and within Israeli society in recent years stems from 'only Bibi' versus 'just not Bibi.' This conflict has persisted for a decade, deeply dividing the nation.

Ramon emphasized that nearly all political debates are framed around Netanyahu's personal interests rather than the actual issues. He insisted that the ongoing crisis cannot be solved without a major political shift.

Resolving this situation requires Netanyahu to leave politics, he said. Given the low probability of this occurringheres a spoilerthere will be no pardon, regardless of extensive media coverage or public debate.

Ramon also dismissed suggestions that a pardon could resolve the judicial reform controversy, labeling such claims as baseless. Its impossible, and this is exactly what blocked any plea bargain, he added.

According to Ramon, Netanyahus request for a pardon appears to be a strategic move to secure a clean slate before upcoming elections. Theres a big difference if Netanyahu enters elections without trial or indictment, he explained. The aim is to create a perception of innocenceno admissions, no judgmentsallowing him to face voters clean in the next elections.

Ramon further noted that Netanyahus ongoing corruption trial poses a more significant challenge than the criticism following the October 7 Hamas attack. Despite the failures on October 7, he has avenues to respond, Ramon commented. While he bears major responsibility, every official in office supported policies aimed at containing Hamas.

He added, Yair Golan, as deputy chief of staff, praised the separation between Gaza and Judea and Samaria. The trial, however, is a considerable burden for Netanyahu and is perceived by some as a serious setback.

Author: Sophia Brooks