Israeli Leaders Respond to Trump's Endorsement of Netanyahu

Political figures in Israel reacted Sunday to U.S. President Donald Trump's declaration of support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the upcoming Israeli elections. Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the National Unity Party and a leading candidate for prime minister from the center-left bloc, stated in an interview with Channel 12 News that while he has great respect for President Trump, "only the citizens of Israel will decide, and I will stand by that." Eisenkot added that the U.S. government would work with any elected government in Israel. Supporters on the right welcomed Trump's statement. Defense Minister Israel Katz praised the "unequivocal support" for Netanyahu, citing Trump's appreciation for Netanyahu's leadership and the continuation of historic cooperation between the IDF and the U.S. military to achieve objectives against Iran. Katz called it a "most important strategic message regarding Israel's future security." Minister of Finance and Religious Zionism party chairman Bezalel Smotrich also welcomed the statement, asserting that while Israelis will decide the election outcome, it is wise to listen to the leader of the world's greatest superpower because "he is right." Smotrich added that the national camp must continue to lead Israel and, with God's help, continue the cooperation between Israel and the U.S. to strengthen Israel's security and future.