US President Donald Trump has endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the country's national elections on October 27. These will be the first national elections since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, and the race is expected to be tight.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Netanyahu as a leader who has been "Strong, Brave, and Brilliant in the face of tremendous opposition." The embattled Israeli leader had long sought Trump’s backing for the upcoming vote.
The endorsement comes after months of increasing strain between the two leaders. It remains unclear if the move will provide a boost to Netanyahu and his right-wing Likud party, as Israeli public support for Trump has diminished amid disagreements over Iran. Many Israelis have expressed disappointment with Trump regarding the outcome of the Iran war and the US president's ceasefire proposal.