Trump confirms US strikes in Iran, insists ‘it’s not a war’

In the wake of the U.S. midterm elections, President Donald Trump suggested cutting off annual military aid to Israel, a staunch supporter of Israel, as even some Republicans began voicing criticism. The vice president, JD Vance, blamed the Republican landslide defeat on U.S.-Israel relations. The rupture caused by Israel's military campaign in Gaza and the war with Iran has caused a significant erosion of bipartisan support for Israel that has existed for decades.

Democrats remain divided on the issue, while Republicans have increasingly criticized Israel's actions.

Israel's critics in Israel accuse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of mismanaging relations with the U.S., while some on the right see Israel as having undermined Trump's "America First" pledge. Meanwhile, on the left, Americans increasingly view Israel as an international pariah due to the war in Gaza and settlement expansion.

Historian and former Israeli ambassador Michael Oren stated, "My working assumption is that the call to cut off military aid is just the beginning." It remains unclear if Trump's remarks represent official policy or were just a last-ditch bid to sway voters on Election Day. The White House declined to comment on the matter.

Netanyahu has previously called Trump the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House, praising his support during Trump's first term, including recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and legitimizing Jewish settlements. However, Trump's second term has seen him join Israel in two wars against Iran, raising concerns among U.S. officials.

As a result of the election results, which saw Democrats win key races, including in Michigan, Vance urged Republicans to end the war, focus on the cost of living/inflation, prioritize "America First," and change the U.S.-Israel relationship. This shift in tone and policy might have significant implications for the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship.