Why Bennett, Eisenkot, and Lapid privately asked Trump not to endorse Netanyahu - analysis

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political predicament is adding to the complexity of U.S. decision-making. His current coalition falls short of the necessary 61 seats to form a government. In his view, halting the opposition from achieving a majority could be sufficient: If no party manages to form a government, he would retain his position as caretaker prime minister until a new election takes place.

This prospect is particularly concerning for Washington as it could lead to prolonged delays in implementing Trump's regional agenda. Trump has maintained a personal political leverage over Netanyahu, refraining from publicly endorsing him for now. During a recent White House meeting, Trump even questioned Netanyahu about his poll standings.

However, Netanyahu's advisers quickly informed him that polls indicated he was "winning." Despite this, Trump has kept the option of endorsing Netanyahu as a bargaining chip before the election. The personal relationship between the two men remains intact, with Trump reportedly fond of Netanyahu but growing frustrated with his decisions.

He has even privately described Netanyahu as "his own worst enemy." However, support for Trump's policies in Israel has waned following recent agreements with Iran and restrictions on Israel's actions in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon. U.S. policy diverges in areas such as Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, and Iran, where Washington is pursuing its own agendas.

Despite the differences, Jared Kushner, Nick Mladenov, and Tony Blair are set to arrive in the region to advance the Gaza initiative. For now, Trump is not using these cards, as Netanyahu's ability to navigate American demands is increasingly limited as the election approaches.