Trump Endorses Netanyahu in Final Push Before Israeli Election

Key points

• Trump endorsed Netanyahu on Sunday, nine days before the October 27 Israeli election.
• The endorsement follows months of public silence and tensions between the two leaders.
• Trump called Netanyahu a 'Great Warrior' and warned that the US would handle Iran alone if a different leader takes power.
• Netanyahu faces a tight race, with polls showing his coalition falling short of the 61 seats needed to govern.
• The endorsement may have limited impact, as many Israelis remain skeptical of Trump's influence.

Background

The endorsement comes after months of strained relations between Trump and Netanyahu, marked by disagreements over the Iran war and peace efforts. Trump had previously declined to endorse Netanyahu, citing his lack of involvement in foreign politics. The two leaders had a close relationship, with Trump endorsing Netanyahu in past elections and even asking Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Netanyahu on corruption charges. However, their relationship soured over the course of the nearly eight-month war with Iran, with Trump criticizing Israel's decision to attack a key Iranian gas field and calling Netanyahu 'crazy' in June.

How outlets are covering it

Euronews emphasizes the significance of the endorsement, noting that it is a coveted boost given Trump's popularity in Israel. CNN highlights the rocky relationship between the two leaders, noting that Trump had been frustrated with Netanyahu's actions in Lebanon and Gaza. Time Magazine focuses on the late nature of the endorsement, noting that Trump had been careful to avoid endorsing candidates who seem likely to lose. Axios provides behind-the-scenes details, noting that Trump began planning his endorsement earlier this week and that some of his closest advisers believed his Middle East agenda would fare better if Netanyahu lost.

Why it matters

The endorsement could give Netanyahu a boost at a critical moment in his fight for political survival. However, its impact may be limited, as many Israelis remain skeptical of Trump's influence. The endorsement also signals a shift in US-Israeli dynamics, as Trump has been trying to shed the image that Netanyahu pulled him into the Iran war.

What to watch

The next step is the October 27 Israeli election, where Netanyahu faces a tight race. The outcome of the election will determine whether Netanyahu remains in power and whether the US will continue to work with him on Middle East issues. Trump has also hinted at a possible resumption of the war with Iran if the Iranians do not 'change their ways.'