Netanyahu warns future US president could be hostile to Israel, eyes close ties with India

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly backed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the run-up to Israel's upcoming parliamentary election on October 27. In a video released by Netanyahu's Likud party, the Israeli leader claimed that Trump and he had "crushed Iran," suggesting that a second term would allow him to continue working with the U.S. president to "eliminate the Iranian threat over the next two years, or even sooner."

This endorsement arrives less than two weeks before Israel's first election since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.

Opposition politicians have accused Netanyahu of personal responsibility for the attack, alleging that he ignored warnings before the assault. Despite this, Netanyahu and Trump have collaborated closely on Israel's military actions, including strikes against Iran. The U.S. president's backing is expected to bolster Netanyahu's re-election campaign.

Trump expressed his support for Netanyahu on his Truth Social platform, praising the Israeli leader's strength, bravery, and brilliance despite opposition within Israel and elsewhere. He emphasized that the United States seeks a partner in Israel that has done much for the country, and he pledged to endorse Netanyahu's re-election bid.

Netanyahu responded to Trump's endorsement, expressing gratitude for the U.S. president's support and their joint efforts. He urged voters to pay attention to Trump's remarks, arguing that their cooperation had yielded significant results, but further work remained. Trump himself has described Israel as "our greatest friend," although the relationship has faced tensions over Iran, with Trump pursuing a negotiated settlement while Netanyahu has argued against diplomatic agreement.