Jerusalem: Israeli President Isaac Herzog has urged a plea bargain deal for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his ongoing corruption trial, as reported by local media. "The possibility of a plea bargain in Netanyahu's trial should be considered," Herzog stated in an interview with the daily Haaretz.

According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu is embroiled in three separate corruption cases, known as Case 1,000, Case 2,000, and Case 4,000, which involve allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Netanyahu, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing, labeling the accusations as 'fake,' appeared in the Tel Aviv District Court for the 25th time since December 2024.

The concept of a plea bargain for Netanyahu has been suggested before, with potential terms including his withdrawal from political life in exchange for avoiding a possible prison sentence. Herzog emphasized the potential benefits of such a deal, stating to Yedioth Ahronoth, "It is not a bad idea at all to examine the option of a plea bargain deal for reducing (societal) tension as well."

Netanyahu's trial, which commenced on May 24, 2020, marks a historic moment as he is the first sitting Israeli leader to face trial as a criminal defendant. Beyond the corruption charges, Netanyahu is also facing serious international allegations. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to actions in Gaza. Since October 7, 2023, over 52,000 people, predominantly women and children, have reportedly been killed in Gaza, escalating the charges against the Israeli leader.