Trump endorses Bibi for re-election, warns Israel against choosing 'wrong leader'

On Sunday, US President Donald Trump endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for re-election, urging Israelis to support their "Great Warrior Prime Minister" and "even greater Partner for Peace" in combating Iran. The endorsement was made nine days before the country's parliamentary election, which is the first after the 2023 Hamas attack that led to a broader regional conflict involving Lebanon and Iran.

Trump praised Netanyahu's leadership and partnership with Washington, particularly in confronting Iran, and warned that a change in leadership could affect the US's role in dealing with Tehran. He emphasized that America is demanding a strong, brave, and brilliant partner, and that anyone other than Netanyahu as Prime Minister would require America to take on the work itself, which he is not inclined to do.

According to the Times of Israel, Netanyahu, who leads the Likud party, faces opposition from various parties, including former military chief Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party. With around 7.33 million Israelis eligible to vote, the election is critical, especially as it comes after the recent Hamas attack and subsequent war in Gaza.