Israel Election 2026: Donald Trump Reportedly Wants Netanyahu Coalition Without Ben-Gvir, Smotrich Amid Tight Knesset Race

Jerusalem, October 28: US President Donald Trump has reportedly expressed a desire for an Israeli coalition government that excludes right-wing ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. The Jerusalem Post, citing Walla, reported that American sources claim Trump views settler violence as a barrier to his broader regional strategy.

While Trump's advisors have been briefed on initial exit poll results, he has yet to make a public statement on the outcome. Earlier, Trump credited his endorsement for Likud Party leader and incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strong performance, despite the race remaining tight as exit polls continued to shift. Trump told his social media platform, Truth Social, "When President Trump endorsed Bibi Netanyahu, the whole tide turned, and now, rather than a decisive defeat for a Great Prime Minister, it looks like a big come-from-behind stalemate, or even a WIN for Netanyahu."

He added, "It all took place AFTER the Endorsement by President Trump, who only wants what is good for the Middle East, Israel, and the United States of America!"