Netanyahu Denies Giving Trump Anything for Support

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vehemently denied allegations that Israel offered any concessions in exchange for a public show of support from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking in an interview on Channel 14's program "The Seven" with Yehuda Schlesinger, Netanyahu stated he was unaware of Trump's endorsement announcement beforehand and recorded his thank-you video only after learning of it.

Netanyahu explained that Trump's statement, released the previous evening, was not coordinated with him. He recounted stepping onto a balcony to film his response after hearing the news while attending an event, refuting any impression that the video was pre-prepared. The Prime Minister expressed being moved by Trump's words, emphasizing that the former president had focused on the most critical issue for Israel's security: the definitive removal of the Iranian existential threat.

Addressing criticism, particularly from opposition figures who questioned whether Netanyahu had made any commitments to the U.S. administration for the endorsement, Netanyahu dismissed these claims. "The answer is unequivocally no," he stated, criticizing those who raised such questions as being "so small" and out of touch with global politics. He asserted that an Israeli Prime Minister must be a key player on the international stage with direct ties to world leaders, specifically criticizing Gadi Eisenkot for lacking the necessary skills, experience, and connections.

Netanyahu highlighted that his relationship with Trump was built over years and that their cooperation is vital for continuing the fight against Iran. He noted that Trump has a two-year window and that their "unique, historic relationship" is crucial. He further argued that Trump's support stems from a shared understanding of the need to counter the Iranian threat, not a specific political agreement.

Responding to suggestions that Trump favors him because he is easier to influence, Netanyahu rejected this, recalling how he has withstood significant pressure from various U.S. presidents, even those with adversarial stances. He added that Trump himself acknowledged Netanyahu's ability to handle exceptional pressure from both international and domestic sources. These remarks followed Trump's public endorsement of Netanyahu ahead of the 26th Knesset elections, praising their collaboration against Iran and presenting Netanyahu as his preferred partner for addressing regional security threats, while warning that electing another leader could alter U.S.-Israel cooperation on Iran.