Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a pardon from the president during his trial on corruption charges that has long divided the country. The request was met with indignation Sunday by opposition politicians and government watchdogs, but some Israelis signaled support and indicated it is time to move on.

The president’s office called the request “extraordinary,” with “significant implications.” At stake is the reputation of Israel’s justice system as well as Netanyahu’s hold on power.

Here’s what to know.

The charges

Netanyahu is the only sitting prime minister in Israel’s history to stand trial. He is charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in three separate cases accusing him of exchanging favors with wealthy political supporters including a te

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