Trump hints at endorsing candidate in Israeli election, despite calling it best to 'stay out'

US President Donald Trump hinted on Monday that he might endorse a candidate in the upcoming Israeli election, but he emphasized the importance of staying out of it. In a phone call with FOX News, Trump stated, "I think it's most appropriate for me to stay out of the Israeli elections" while simultaneously mentioning that he "may endorse somebody."

The President expressed his stance on Iran, saying, "Iran should put up the white flag of surrender." He also mentioned that he was not in a hurry, noting that the midterms have no bearing on his thoughts. Trump confirmed the existence of a backchannel with IRGC officials.

During the call, Trump reiterated his call for Israel to exercise restraint and avoid targeted strikes in Gaza, which he believed would hinder his 20-point plan for Gaza. His son-in-law, Jared Kushner, led a delegation of American and Board of Peace officials, including Nickolay Mladenov and Tony Blair, to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. The US aimed to bolster pressure on Israel to advance the Gaza plan.

Israeli opposition reportedly approached Trump to request his neutrality in the election. Trump's comments followed reports from Israeli media about messages conveyed through acquaintances, donors, and political allies asking him to remain neutral. Axios reported earlier this week that Trump questioned Netanyahu on the Likud's poll position during his visit to Washington in late July.

Netanyahu had hoped to secure Trump's support for his reelection campaign ahead of the October 27 election, according to sources familiar with the matter. Israel's general elections to the Knesset are scheduled for October 27.