Trump backs Netanyahu ahead of Israel vote

Israeli voters facing an upcoming election received a new endorsement from Washington on Sunday evening. U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social urging citizens to elect Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a second term. This marks the second time Trump has publicly supported the prime minister in this campaign cycle.

In the post, Trump asked voters to recall Netanyahu's performance during his tenure. "When you go to the Polls please remember that Bibi has been an outstanding Warrior Prime Minister!" he wrote. Trump described the two leaders as having a strong working relationship and stated that they have been "winning together." He specifically cited Operation Midnight Hammer and Operation Epic Fury as examples of their joint success.

The endorsement came shortly after reports indicated Netanyahu was actively seeking additional support from the American president. Two American sources told The Jerusalem Post that Netanyahu and his allies within Trump's inner circle increased pressure for new statements of backing. One source described the prime minister's recent behavior, saying, "We have never seen Netanyahu like this before. He is showing signs of political desperation."

Axios reported that Netanyahu and Trump spoke twice over the preceding three days. According to an Israeli source briefed on the discussions, Netanyahu proposed specific wording for new endorsements. The prime minister also suggested that Trump speak with Israeli journalists to reiterate his support.

Trump included a warning in his post regarding the potential consequences of electing a different leader. "If Israel has the wrong leader, meaning anyone other than Bibi, America will have to do this job itself, and I'm not inclined to do that," he wrote. The Jerusalem Post noted that this remark referred to the ongoing confrontation with Iran.

The message combines praise for Netanyahu's leadership with a direct call to vote for him. It also outlines the potential impact on U.S. involvement if another candidate wins the election. The post arrives as voters prepare to cast their ballots, following a period of intensive diplomatic contact between the two leaders.