White House Views Netanyahu's US Outreach as Sign of Desperation

The White House views Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's persistent efforts to secure public support from former U.S. President Donald Trump as a "sign of desperation" ahead of upcoming elections, according to Axios. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Netanyahu fears losing the election and has contacted Trump twice in the past three days, even suggesting specific wording for statements and proposing interviews with local journalists. After initial hesitation, Trump officially endorsed Netanyahu, hinting at potential negative consequences for bilateral relations if there is a change in leadership in Jerusalem. However, Neta Molcho, an official representative of the Likud party, has categorically denied that the prime minister sought assistance from the American leader. Analytical polls from three major Israeli television channels predict Netanyahu's ruling bloc will secure only 50 seats in the 120-seat Knesset, a significant drop from their current standing. The Likud faction alone is projected to fall from 32 to 20 seats. In contrast, the opposition alliance led by former Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot is expected to win 52 to 56 seats, with Arab parties potentially gaining 14 to 16 mandates. If Netanyahu wins, Trump could leverage his support for diplomatic concessions. Conversely, some U.S. advisors believe an opposition victory would be more beneficial for advancing new U.S. Middle East initiatives. The parliamentary elections are scheduled for October 27, 2026, marking the first scheduled elections since 1988, and the current government is the first in 50 years to complete a full four-year term.