On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump declared his unwavering support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the parliamentary elections approach on October 27, with just nine days remaining before Israelis cast their votes.
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump conveyed his full backing for Netanyahu, stating, "Let this letter serve as my full endorsement of Bibi Netanyahu in his upcoming re-election campaign as Prime Minister of Israel," emphasizing their continued collaboration.
Trump praised the Israeli leader, describing him as "strong, courageous, and brilliant," and labeled him a "great warrior prime minister" and an essential partner in the fight against Iran.
The U.S. President also issued a subtle warning to the Israeli electorate: If Israel were to choose a different leadership, Washington might have to shoulder part of the regional responsibilities alone, which he indicated he was not willing to do.
Netanyahu quickly responded publicly, expressing gratitude for Trump's "tremendous support," and stated, "Together, we will complete the mission."
The elections on October 27 will be the first in Israel since the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas, which ignited the war in Gaza and led to a broader regional escalation involving Hezbollah in Lebanon and military exchanges with Iran.
The Knesset completed its constitutional four-year term on July 17, and October 27 is the latest legally permissible date for the elections. An opposition attempt to dissolve the parliament early was defeated in June by a vote of 61 to 53, with support from the ultra-Orthodox parties Shas and United Torah Judaism, who backed Netanyahu following an agreement on the military service law for the ultra-Orthodox.
Netanyahu's main contender is Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli military chief of staff and leader of the centrist Yashar party. A poll conducted between October 14 and 15 showed Yashar projected to win 26 seats compared to Netanyahu's Likud party's 20 seats, with the opposition bloc predicted to secure 54 seats and the prime minister's bloc 49, both below the 61 needed to govern in a 120-member Knesset.
In direct preference for prime minister, Eisenkot led Netanyahu with 46% compared to 40%.
The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu in 2026 has been a mix of strategic alliance and occasional tensions. In June, a tense phone call occurred between Trump and the Israeli prime minister, where Trump accused Netanyahu of acting "crazy" by expanding operations against Hezbollah and considering strikes in Beirut. Nevertheless, Trump later approved an Israeli military response against Iran after being convinced that inaction would give Tehran an advantage in nuclear negotiations.
Netanyahu is also facing a corruption trial and accusations of genocide in Gaza, issues that have overshadowed both his tenure and the ongoing election campaign.
The actual impact of Trump's endorsement on the Israeli electorate remains uncertain. According to Reuters, Israeli public support for the U.S. President had waned in recent months due to previous disagreements between the two countries over strategy against Iran.
Key Questions About Netanyahu's Election Campaign
What is the significance of Trump's support for Netanyahu?
Trump's endorsement could solidify Netanyahu's position among voters who value strong U.S.-Israel relations, although its actual impact is uncertain given recent declines in Israeli public support for Trump.
How do the polls compare between Netanyahu and his main rival?
Polls show Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party leading with 26 seats compared to Netanyahu's Likud party's 20 seats, and Eisenkot ahead in direct preference for prime minister by 46% to 40%.
What challenges does Netanyahu face in his re-election campaign?
Netanyahu is contending with a corruption trial, accusations of genocide in Gaza, and political opposition, all of which complicate his re-election efforts.
What recent events have influenced the Israeli elections?
The elections follow the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which sparked conflict in Gaza and heightened regional tensions, influencing voter sentiment and campaign dynamics.