Trump endorses Netanyahu before Israeli election — SkimNews
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- Trump endorsed Netanyahu for re-election, predicting a "tremendous victory" and calling him "the man I want by my side" in a phone call aired by the Israeli leader.
- Netanyahu released a video of the Trump call from an air force base, where he also issued a warning about Israel's readiness to strike enemies "the moment it is required".
- Trump and Netanyahu referenced their February joint attack on Iran and suggested future action, with Netanyahu saying, "We have a job to finish," though he did not elaborate.
- David Makovsky questioned the electoral impact of Trump’s endorsement, noting Netanyahu’s polarizing status and limited pool of undecided voters in Israel.
- Vance declined to endorse Netanyahu, with reports highlighting tensions within the U.S. leadership as the vice president has criticized Israel’s conduct in the Iran conflict.
- Israel Hayom reported the Trump administration pushed Netanyahu to form a unity government without far-right allies, a claim denied by U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee.
Why it matters: Trump’s endorsement gives Netanyahu a boost in a tight election where U.S. backing is a central theme, but internal U.S. divisions—evident in Vance’s silence and reported policy clashes—undercut the appearance of unity. The push for a more moderate Israeli government suggests strategic U.S. interests may hinge on post-election coalition choices.
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