Former Netanyahu Advisor Says PM May Skip Election If He Sees Defeat Looming
Aviv Boushinsky, former communications advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, discussed the recent summit between Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump in a July 28, 2026 interview on 103FM. He addressed the relatively modest reception Netanyahu received at the White House, noting that in Israel, the success of diplomatic meetings is often judged by ceremonial gestures. However, Boushinsky emphasized that despite the lack of red carpets or honor guards, both sides described the meeting as positive, especially given recent tensions.
Boushinsky stated that the meeting was important for both leaders, even if it did not produce a major breakthrough. He suggested that Trump did not necessarily need the meeting politically, as he wanted to avoid the perception that Netanyahu was dictating U.S. policy or dragging him into risky ventures like Iran. Conversely, Netanyahu benefited politically from the summit, as it reinforced his personal connection with U.S. presidents, which is a key element of his campaign.
Regarding Netanyahu's interactions with Israeli journalists during the visit, Boushinsky did not see anything unusual. He also noted that Netanyahu has had other significant meetings with Trump in the past. When asked if Trump might intervene to support Netanyahu in the upcoming Israeli elections, Boushinsky said it was possible and predicted further meetings, especially since Netanyahu is expected to be in New York in September.
On Netanyahu's political standing ahead of the elections, Boushinsky said the prime minister is aware of the challenges and is even willing to engage with media outlets he previously avoided. He believes Netanyahu trusts polls from channels other than Channel 14. Boushinsky also described Netanyahu's recent changes to the Likud party constitution as politically risky but successful, with the current challenge being to attract voters from other blocs.
Finally, Boushinsky warned that if Netanyahu perceives he is losing the election, he might choose not to run. Netanyahu reportedly sees a political stalemate as almost a victory, indicating his calculation of the electoral landscape remains cautious and strategic.
