Trump endorses embattled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection

In the wake of the recent Israeli parliamentary election, United States President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind longtime Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump lauded Netanyahu as a "great warrior prime minister" and a strategic partner, praising his role in launching strikes against Iran in February. The ongoing conflict, now in its seventh month, has caused significant disruption to energy markets and regional economies.

Addressing "the Great People of Israel," Trump stated, "Please let this Letter serve to represent my Complete and Total Endorsement of Bibi Netanyahu in his upcoming Race for Re-Election as Prime Minister of Israel." While the endorsement may not guarantee Netanyahu's victory, as public support for Trump in Israel has waned due to disagreements over Iran, the backing could still influence the election outcome.

Israel's prime minister is chosen through coalition-building in parliament rather than a direct popular vote, and the election will be the country's first since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.

Netanyahu responded to Trump's endorsement on X, expressing his gratitude and stating, "Together we will complete the mission!" This endorsement marks a significant deviation from the US tradition of endorsing foreign elections, including instances in Hungary, Colombia, Argentina, Japan, and Honduras.