Trump Declines to Endorse Netanyahu, Cites Non-Involvement in Israeli Politics

Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated in an interview with TIME magazine that he is "not involved in Israeli politics" when asked about his stance on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu potentially seeking another term. Trump also commented on the ongoing conflict, noting that he would make "the appropriate decision" regarding Hamas's disarmament in the "situation room," without specifying any actions.

Regarding reports that Netanyahu was warned about the possibility of the October 7th attack, Trump claimed he heard about it for the first time and expressed disbelief that Netanyahu would have known and not acted. "I don't think so," Trump said, adding, "I think if he knew, he would have done something about it." He described October 7th as a "terrible day."

Trump also touched upon Saudi Arabia-Israel relations, asserting that without his support as president, both countries would not have survived and "would have been wiped off the face of the earth." He described his relationship with the Saudi Crown Prince as "very good."

Despite his non-endorsement of Netanyahu, Trump mentioned that he is "very popular in Israel" and plans to visit the country in about two and a half years, claiming he "did a lot" for Israel during his presidency.