Trump Endorses Netanyahu for Israeli Prime Minister Reelection

Trump posted his endorsement on social media, calling Netanyahu a "Great Warrior Prime Minister" and an even greater Partner for Peace in combatting the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Trump also stated that if Israel has the wrong Leader, meaning anyone other than Netanyahu, the United States would have to confront Iran alone and that he is not inclined to do so. Netanyahu responded by thanking Trump for his tremendous support and work together, adding, "Together we will complete the mission!" The endorsement comes as polls suggest Netanyahu's coalition may fall short of the seats needed to form a government.

This is the first time a U.S. president has publicly endorsed a candidate in an Israeli election. The election is the first since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, and follows a multi-front Middle Eastern war initiated in February. Some Israelis and commentators have expressed disappointment over the inconclusive outcome of the Iran war and Trump's ceasefire proposal.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded to Trump's threat by warning that Tehran also has unfinished jobs. Opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot stated that while Trump is a friend of Israel, the country's elections are an internal matter.