US Vice President Vance Declines to Endorse Netanyahu

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance declined to publicly endorse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the upcoming elections, stating he would not interfere in Israeli politics. This comes two days after former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong public endorsement of Netanyahu via his social media platform, TRUTH. Trump praised Netanyahu as a "great fighter" and "even better peace partner" in the fight against Iran, asserting that if Israel had any other leader, America would have to handle the situation itself.

In his post, Trump detailed Iran's "systematic" military and economic dismantling, warning of the consequences if Iran's threats against Israel and the U.S. were not met with decisive action. He also commended Netanyahu's resilience and leadership in the face of significant opposition, even from within Israel, noting that Netanyahu "did not break" and "thrived" under pressure. Trump concluded by emphasizing that Netanyahu is the type of partner the U.S. needs, stating, "Bibi Netanyahu will never let you down."

Netanyahu responded to Trump's endorsement, highlighting their shared accomplishments, including confronting Iran and its proxies, and averting the immediate threat of nuclear weapons. He quoted Trump as saying the mission would be completed only with Netanyahu's continued leadership.

Separately, a report from Channel 13 news alleged that Netanyahu had promised Trump partial reconstruction in Gaza, despite a 20-point plan stipulating that reconstruction would only occur after full demilitarization of the Strip. The Prime Minister's office vehemently denied this report, calling it "complete fake news."