Trump endorses Netanyahu ahead of crucial Israeli election

US President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s parliamentary election scheduled for October 27 offering strong support as the longtime leader faces a challenging contest.

US President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s parliamentary election scheduled for October 27 offering strong support as the longtime leader faces a challenging contest.

In a message posted on his Truth Social platform on Sunday Trump praised Netanyahu’s leadership, describing him as a strong and courageous leader and a partner in pursuing peace. He also credited Netanyahu with joining the United States in launching strikes against Iran in February.

Trump said Netanyahu had remained resilient despite significant pressure and opposition, including criticism within Israel itself. Addressing the Israeli public the US president expressed his complete support for Netanyahu’s bid to remain prime minister.

Netanyahu thanked Trump in a post on X saying the two leaders would complete their mission together.

However, Trump’s endorsement may not necessarily strengthen Netanyahu’s electoral position. Public support for the US president in Israel has reportedly declined amid disagreements between Washington and Tel Aviv over Iran.

Opinion polls suggest that no candidate has a clear path to forming the next government. Unlike a direct presidential election, Israel’s prime minister is determined through the formation of a parliamentary coalition, making alliances between political parties crucial to securing power.

The October 27 vote will be Israel’s first national election since the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. Since then, Israel has conducted military operations in Gaza and carried out strikes in Lebanon and Iran, contributing to wider regional instability.

The ongoing conflict, now in its seventh month according to the report has also disrupted global energy markets and damaged critical infrastructure across the Middle East.

The election could prove decisive for Netanyahu’s political future after a turbulent period in Israeli history. While his supporters point to his leadership during the conflict, centrist rivals are campaigning for a change in direction.

Trump has also departed from the longstanding US tradition of avoiding endorsements in foreign elections, having previously backed candidates in several countries including Hungary, Colombia, Argentina, Japan and Honduras.