Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a presidential pardon in his ongoing corruption trial, arguing that ending the legal proceedings is in Israel's national interest. In a video statement, Netanyahu said the trial, which has lasted nearly six years, is deepening divisions within the country and distracting from urgent national challenges and opportunities. He claimed that serious crimes were committed during the investigation against him but maintained that his priority is to serve Israel's security and diplomatic needs. Netanyahu cited recent pressure to testify more frequently and a letter from former United States President Donald Trump supporting the pardon as factors in his decision. He called for national unity and reconciliation, urging support for his request to bring the trial to an immediate end.