Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely counting on a return for former US President and Republican candidate Donald Trump to the White House, AFP reported citing political analysts.
The former president’s previous tenure was marked by a series of favorable policies for Israel, and Trump’s mixed messages on Middle Eastern policy have put Netanyahu in a position of hopeful anticipation.
In recent remarks, Trump has oscillated between urging aggressive military action—such as striking Iran’s nuclear facilities—and criticizing Netanyahu for the October 7 attack, claiming it would not have occurred under his administration. He also suggested he would pressure Israel to de-escalate its ongoing conflicts. Despite these mixed signals, political analysts assert that Netanyahu views a Trump presidency as a potential boon.
Gidon Rahat, a political science professor at Hebrew University, told AFP, “One of Netanyahu’s milestones is the US election. He is praying for a Trump victory, which he thinks will give him a lot of freedom of movement.”
This sentiment was shared by Aviv Bushinsky, Netanyahu’s former chief of staff, who noted, “His experience with Republicans is very good… unlike with the Democrats who are much tougher on him.”
Historic partnership
Netanyahu’s relationship with Trump stands out over his 17 years in office, having only worked alongside one Republican president. Trump’s administration initiated several actions that bolstered Netanyahu’s political capital, such as relocating the US embassy to Jerusalem, recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and facilitating the normalization of relations between Israel and three Arab nations. Trump’s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the imposition of severe sanctions against the Islamic Republic further solidified his status as a staunch ally of Israel.
In stark contrast, President Joe Biden’s approach has been characterized by a more restrained engagement, often critical of Netanyahu’s policies, especially regarding strikes on Iran’s oil and nuclear infrastructure. Yet, despite this frigid relationship, Biden has consistently reaffirmed his “ironclad support” for Israel.
Popularity contest
The former president’s popularity in Israel is notable. A recent poll by Mitvim, the Israel Institute for Regional Foreign Policies, indicated that 68% of Israelis believe Trump would best serve their nation’s interests, compared to just 14% for Vice President Kamala Harris, despite her vocal support for Israel.
Mixed feelings among Palestinians
While Netanyahu may relish the prospect of Trump’s return, Palestinians remain largely dissatisfied with both candidates. Voices on the ground express skepticism about any potential change stemming from the US elections as both candidates are seen as pro-Israel.