| Published June 29, 2025
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again inserted himself into the heated political and legal saga surrounding former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, publicly condemning the ongoing corruption trial against the Israeli leader and urging the courts to drop the case.
In a series of recent statements, Trump sharply criticized Israeli prosecutors and the judiciary, calling the charges against Netanyahu a “political witch hunt” designed to remove a popular and effective leader from power. “Let Bibi go!” Trump exclaimed, doubling down on his call for an end to what he described as a baseless prosecution.
Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, faces multiple counts of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust related to several corruption allegations. Netanyahu denies all wrongdoing, arguing the case against him is motivated by political rivals intent on sidelining him.
Trump’s vocal defense of Netanyahu highlights the former president’s continued influence on global conservative politics and his personal connection to Netanyahu, with whom he maintained a close relationship during his tenure in the White House. Trump praised Netanyahu as a “great leader” who strengthened Israel’s security and sovereignty and condemned what he called “the political forces trying to destroy him.”
In an interview with The Times of Israel, Trump expressed frustration with the Israeli legal process, accusing the prosecutors of targeting Netanyahu unfairly. “This is an attempt to take down a strong leader who did tremendous things for Israel. The people of Israel deserve better than a sham trial,” Trump said.
Similarly, a Reuters report noted Trump’s sharp words directed at Israel’s justice system, emphasizing that “Netanyahu should be allowed to continue leading without interference from corrupt judicial officials.” Trump’s intervention stirred debate in Israel and abroad, drawing both support and criticism.
Supporters of Netanyahu see Trump’s advocacy as a sign of international backing against what they consider judicial activism. Critics, however, argue that Trump’s remarks undermine the independence of Israel’s judiciary and interfere with the rule of law.
The trial itself remains a focal point of Israeli politics, with many Israelis deeply divided over Netanyahu’s legacy and legal fate. The case has also complicated the political scene, as Netanyahu and his allies campaign to regain power amid the trial proceedings.
Legal experts note that despite Trump’s pressure, the Israeli courts operate independently and have repeatedly affirmed their commitment to a fair trial. Yet, Trump’s persistent calls to “let Bibi go” amplify the political tensions surrounding the case and raise questions about external influence on Israel’s democratic institutions.
As the trial continues, Trump’s passionate defense of Netanyahu underscores the broader ideological and political battles playing out in Israel and beyond — where questions of leadership, corruption, and justice remain fiercely contested.
Key Facts: Trump’s Support for Netanyahu and the Corruption Trial
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Netanyahu’s Charges: Benjamin Netanyahu is facing multiple criminal charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, linked to three separate cases involving allegations of accepting gifts and trying to influence media coverage.
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Trial Status: The trial has been ongoing for several years, with court sessions frequently capturing national and international attention. Netanyahu has consistently denied all charges and claims political persecution.
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Trump’s Relationship with Netanyahu: Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have shared a close political alliance, particularly during Trump’s presidency (2017–2021). Trump was the first sitting U.S. president to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and move the U.S. embassy there, a policy strongly supported by Netanyahu.
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Trump’s Statements: In June 2025, Trump publicly called on Israeli courts to drop the charges against Netanyahu, labeling the trial a “witch hunt” and demanding, “Let Bibi go!” He accused Israeli prosecutors of politically motivated persecution.
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Impact on Israeli Politics: The trial has deeply divided Israeli society and politics, with Netanyahu’s supporters viewing the case as an attempt to unseat a popular leader, while opponents see it as necessary accountability.
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Judicial Independence: Despite Trump’s intervention, Israel’s judiciary maintains its independence and insists the legal process is fair and based on evidence.
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International Reactions: Trump’s defense of Netanyahu has stirred mixed reactions globally—garnering praise from Netanyahu’s supporters and criticism from those concerned about judicial processes and political interference.
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Netanyahu’s Political Ambitions: Despite the trial, Netanyahu remains a powerful political figure, actively seeking a return to leadership and rallying support amid the ongoing legal battle.
Resulting Effects
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Increased Political Polarization in Israel: Trump’s outspoken defense of Netanyahu has intensified divisions within Israeli society, rallying Netanyahu’s base while further alienating his opponents.
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Pressure on Israel’s Judiciary: Trump’s public attacks on prosecutors and the courts have sparked debate over judicial independence, placing additional pressure on Israel’s legal institutions to maintain impartiality amid political interference.
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Boost to Netanyahu’s Supporters: Trump’s backing energizes Netanyahu’s political allies, providing them with international validation and momentum as Netanyahu seeks a political comeback.
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Strained U.S.-Israel Relations in Some Circles: While Trump’s stance appeals to many conservatives, some U.S. and Israeli officials worry that his involvement complicates diplomatic relations and undermines respect for Israel’s legal process.
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Global Attention on Israeli Politics: The trial, amplified by Trump’s intervention, draws significant international media focus, spotlighting the tensions between democratic accountability and political loyalty.
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Potential Impact on Netanyahu’s Trial: Although the judiciary remains independent, sustained political pressure and international advocacy could influence the pace and public perception of the trial.
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Wider Implications for Political Leaders Facing Legal Challenges: Trump’s actions set a precedent for international political figures defending allies under legal scrutiny, raising questions about cross-border political interference.
Bottom Line:
Donald Trump’s vocal defense of Benjamin Netanyahu underscores the ongoing struggle between political loyalty and judicial accountability in Israel’s vibrant democracy. By urging the courts to “let Bibi go,” Trump not only champions a longtime ally but also challenges the integrity and independence of Israel’s legal system. His intervention amplifies existing political divisions, energizes Netanyahu’s supporters, and draws intense international scrutiny. As Netanyahu’s trial continues, the clash between leadership and law will remain a defining issue, shaping the future of Israeli politics and raising important questions about the influence of external powers in domestic affairs.
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