Trump Says Netanyahu Is Likely His Choice, but He Wants to See the Field

Amid growing reports of a serious personal and diplomatic rift between Washington and Jerusalem, U.S. President Donald Trump offered a revealing look at his complicated ties with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and sent a calculated message to Israeli politics.

In a special interview with Kan News, Trump addressed whether he would publicly back Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s upcoming election. He stopped short of a firm commitment, unlike in the past, saying, "It is very likely that I will support Netanyahu in the upcoming election, but I need to see who is running."

Trump also delivered a veiled criticism of Netanyahu’s recent conduct and the diplomatic talks in the region, signaling that he expects a change in approach from Jerusalem. "We have a good relationship but he needs to be more rational," Trump said.

Despite the strains and tensions that have surfaced recently, Trump emphasized that the political and personal channel between them remains open. He added, "I am ready to meet him."