United States President Donald Trump has endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bid for re-election, throwing his support behind the embattled leader nine days before Israel’s October 27 parliamentary election.
In a post on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, Trump described Netanyahu as “Strong, Brave, and Brilliant” and praised his partnership with Washington, particularly in confronting Iran.
Trump said he was giving Netanyahu his “Complete and Total Endorsement”, adding that the United States might have to confront Iran without Israel’s support if Netanyahu lost the election.
Netanyahu thanked Trump for his backing in a post on X, saying, “Together we will complete the mission!”
The endorsement comes as Netanyahu faces a tight electoral contest, with opinion polls suggesting his governing coalition could struggle to secure the 61 seats needed to form a majority in Israel’s 120-member parliament.
The election will be Israel’s first national vote since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which triggered the war in Gaza. Netanyahu has faced criticism over security failures preceding the attack and his government’s handling of the subsequent conflicts.
Although Trump’s support could strengthen Netanyahu’s campaign, its impact on voters remains uncertain amid public dissatisfaction over the outcome of the war with Iran and disagreements between the two leaders over regional policy.
Israelis will vote on October 27 to determine whether Netanyahu secures another term or his political opponents gain the opportunity to form a new government.
