Netanyahu's Dual Blow to Opposition Fueled by Trump's Timed Support
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strategically timed Donald Trump's public endorsement to coincide with his election campaign, aiming to bolster his political standing. Trump's support, reportedly influenced by internal polling data showing Netanyahu's strengthening position, was released after maintaining behind-the-scenes contact. Netanyahu also linked Israel's security initiatives, particularly regarding Iran, to the remaining period of Trump's presidency, while expressing skepticism about improved relations with Turkey under its current leadership.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Donald Trump publicly endorsed Benjamin Netanyahu shortly before the Israeli elections.
- Trump's support was reportedly contingent on receiving data indicating Netanyahu's improved chances.
- Netanyahu linked Israel's security initiatives, including concerning Iran, to Trump's presidency.
- Netanyahu expressed doubts about improving relations with Turkey while Erdoğan is in power.
- Sources within Likud stated Trump's endorsement was expected and strategically timed.
- Internal data showing a strengthening right-wing bloc influenced Trump's decision to endorse.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has orchestrated a significant political maneuver, leveraging a public endorsement from former U.S. President Donald Trump to bolster his standing and counter opposition narratives. Trump's support, revealed just before the upcoming elections, was reportedly held back until he received data indicating Netanyahu's improved chances of victory. This timing was not accidental, as Netanyahu had linked Israel's security and diplomatic initiatives, particularly concerning Iran, to the remaining window of Trump's presidency. Netanyahu expressed a desire to expand Israel's alliances, noting that while relations with Turkey could improve, this is unlikely under President Erdoğan due to his hostile rhetoric towards Israel.
Despite a perceived cooling of relations, including a lack of meetings, Netanyahu and Trump maintained contact behind the scenes. This was partly to mitigate criticism in the U.S. media and opposition that Israel was drawing America into a conflict not necessarily serving U.S. interests, a stance that could politically harm Trump. The coordinated strategy aimed for Trump's tweet, released under embargo, to accompany Netanyahu's security briefing, providing a public endorsement from the U.S. president.
Sources within the Likud party indicated that Trump's endorsement was anticipated, with the main question being the timing. They suggested that Trump's initial silence amplified the impact of his eventual statement. Internal data presented to Trump reportedly showed a strengthening of the Likud and the right-wing bloc, with some polls indicating an advantage for the right, convincing him that Netanyahu had a real chance to win. This data was a significant factor in his decision to publicly support Netanyahu at this juncture.
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