Trump's Support for Netanyahu Linked to Potential Deal on Iran
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Former Israeli security officials believe Prime Minister Netanyahu is seeking Donald Trump's support to form a unity government with opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot, potentially to act against Iran. Trump's recent endorsement of Netanyahu on social media, referencing Iran, is seen by some as a potential exchange for Netanyahu delaying action against Iran until after the US midterm elections. Opposition figures worry the Abraham Accords could be used as leverage, while military sources suggest no immediate threat from Iran. Eisenkot's team stated they would deal with any such pressure if it arises.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Netanyahu may be relying on Trump to push for a unity government with Gadi Eisenkot to act against Iran.
- Trump's recent support for Netanyahu on social media linked to potential Iran action before US midterms.
- Opposition fears Abraham Accords expansion could be used as political leverage by Netanyahu.
- Israeli military sources see no immediate, urgent threat from Iran's nuclear or missile programs.
- Trump reportedly seeks an anti-Iran regional alliance, needing a broad Israeli government.
A former senior Israeli security official suggests that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is counting on former President Donald Trump to pressure opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot into joining a unity government after the upcoming elections. This potential coalition would aim to advance a joint action against Iran. Opposition figures are concerned that the expansion of the Abraham Accords could also be used as leverage.
According to the former official, Netanyahu has been disseminating intelligence fragments suggesting Iran is secretly reviving its nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities. The official believes Netanyahu is mixing real information with conspiracy theories to legitimize a potential strike.
Trump, in an October 18th post on Truth Social, reiterated the possibility of attacking Iran, stating that if Iran doesn't reach a peace deal, "we will finish the job soon." He added that if Israel had the "wrong leader, anyone other than Bibi," America would have to act alone, which he is reluctant to do.
Political sources claim Trump's support, particularly his remarks on Iran, might be a quid pro quo for Netanyahu's alleged commitment to avoid military action against Iran before the US November 3rd midterm elections. A Republican defeat in these elections could weaken Trump, potentially making him more inclined to involve the US alongside Israel in an Iran operation.
However, a senior military source told Al-Monitor that current intelligence does not indicate an urgent threat from Iran, describing their efforts to rebuild capabilities as long-term processes. The source also suggested Trump desires to form an anti-Iran regional alliance, needing a broad Israeli government for stability. Trump might leverage the need for a stable Israeli government to push opposition figures like Eisenkot, Bennett, and Lapid to join Netanyahu, thereby paving the way for Saudi Arabia's inclusion in the Abraham Accords. Eisenkot's aides stated he would address such a situation if it arises, hoping Trump refrains from interfering in Israeli politics.
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