In late campaign boost, US president donald trump endorses netanyahu ahead of israeli election

Late campaign endorsement

Trump described Netanyahu as “Strong, Brave, and Brilliant,” while also noting the opposition he faces, including within Israel. Netanyahu thanked Trump in a Hebrew statement posted on X, saying they would complete their mission together.

The endorsement came late in Netanyahu’s campaign. Trump had held back for months, repeatedly avoiding a clear commitment when asked whether he would support the prime minister.

Impact on the tight race

It remains unclear whether Trump’s backing will affect the expected close contest. Trump remains popular in Israel, making his support a potentially valuable boost for Netanyahu. But many Israelis, including leading commentators, have expressed disappointment with the inconclusive outcome of the Iran war and Trump’s ceasefire proposal. They said the proposal fell short of many key goals set when the countries launched the war jointly in February.

Strains between allies

Trump and Netanyahu have been close allies, and their alignment appeared especially strong after joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in 2025. Over the nearly eight-month war with Iran this year, however, the leaders have disagreed.

Trump’s recent remarks about Netanyahu were more restrained. In a Time magazine interview published this month, Trump said, “I’m not involved in politics anymore,” when asked whether he would back Netanyahu, despite campaigning for and endorsing U.S. politicians.