Today, President Donald Trump has endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection . The endorsement comes just nine days before Israel’s October 27 election, as Netanyahu seeks another term amid the ongoing war with Iran.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Netanyahu as a strong leader and a key American ally in confronting Iran.
“Bibi Netanyahu has been a Great Warrior Prime Minister, and an even greater Partner for Peace in combatting the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Trump wrote.
The president described Netanyahu as “Strong, Brave, and Brilliant” despite facing considerable opposition at home. He also praised the Israeli leader for growing stronger under pressure.
Trump warned that the United States could be forced to confront Iran alone if Netanyahu loses the election.
“If Israel has the wrong leader, which would be anyone other than Bibi, America will have to do this work ourselves, and I am not inclined to do so,” Trump wrote.
He also suggested that Washington and Israel could soon take further action against Iran unless Tehran changes its policies.
Netanyahu welcomed the endorsement and thanked Trump in a post on X.
“Thank you, President Trump, for the tremendous support and the joint work,” Netanyahu wrote. “Together, we will complete the mission.”
In a separate video message, Netanyahu described Trump as Israel’s greatest friend in the White House.
He also addressed Americans concerned about rising gasoline prices. Netanyahu warned that an Iran armed with nuclear weapons would pose an even greater threat to energy markets.
The endorsement comes as the two leaders continue their joint military campaign against Iran. The conflict began on February 28, when American and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes against Iranian targets.
The war has disrupted global energy markets and increased uncertainty across the Middle East. Iran has also used the Strait of Hormuz as a negotiating tool while targeting ships.
Despite their close relationship, Trump and Netanyahu have disagreed over aspects of the conflict, including Washington’s ceasefire proposals.
Trump remains popular in Israel, but some Israelis have expressed disappointment over the war’s inconclusive outcome. The American president had also withheld his endorsement for months as the two leaders pursued different strategies.
Netanyahu faces a closely contested election on October 27. The vote will be Israel’s first national election since Hamas attacked the country on October 7, 2023.
Israel’s parliamentary system requires parties to form a governing coalition in the 120-seat Knesset. A candidate needs the support of at least 61 lawmakers to establish a government.
Current forecasts suggest Netanyahu’s Likud party could win between 18 and 22 seats. His broader right-wing and religious coalition is projected to secure approximately 49 to 51 seats, falling short of a majority.
Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, first took office in 1996. His challengers include former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, former Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman and former military chief Gadi Eisenkot.
It remains unclear whether Trump’s endorsement will translate into additional votes for Netanyahu. Polling averages currently show no clear leader in the race.