Trump backs Netanyahu ahead of tight Israeli election, warns voters against rivals

US President Donald Trump has endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel's tight parliamentary election on October 27. The endorsement aims to bolster Netanyahu's chances of securing another term as prime minister. In a video released by his Likud party, Netanyahu praised their close relationship and claimed they had "crushed Iran," asserting that re-election would enable them to work together to "eliminate the Iranian threat."

However, Netanyahu faces a difficult election race, with opposition politician Gadi Eisenkot leading as his main rival. Trump praised Netanyahu in a post on his Truth Social platform, calling him "Strong, Brave, and Brilliant in the face of tremendous opposition." He urged voters to support Netanyahu, warning that if they chose his rival, "America will have to do this work ourselves, and I am not inclined to do so."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Netanyahu was "driving America into another war," suggesting that his aggressive stance against Iran risks exacerbating tensions. Netanyahu's endorsement could play a significant role in the outcome of the election, which is seen as a referendum on his leadership. If Netanyahu secures re-election, he would continue to lead Israel through ongoing security challenges and political tensions.