Trump Claims Credit for Netanyahu's Election Performance

Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the Israeli election results, attributing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strong showing to his own endorsement. Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that he heard Netanyahu performed "very well," describing the outcome as a "tie" or possibly a "win," and suggesting his own "support announcement" was instrumental. He reiterated this sentiment on his social media platform, Truth Social, by sharing a lengthy quote attributed to Irving C. Schwartz. The quote claimed that Trump's endorsement "turned the whole trend around," leading to a "big tie" or even a "win" for Netanyahu, instead of a decisive loss.

Trump had previously intervened in the Israeli elections on October 18, posting his first endorsement of Netanyahu, calling him a "great fighter" and a "great partner for peace." He also warned that if Israel had a different leader, America would have to handle matters with Iran alone. Netanyahu thanked Trump for the support, while Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, stated that only Israeli citizens would determine their prime minister and that the U.S. would work with any government.

More recently, Trump re-shared his endorsement of Netanyahu, urging Israelis to vote for the Likud party. He emphasized his "excellent relationship" with Netanyahu, which he said led to "joint victories." Trump also highlighted his administration's actions against Iran, claiming it left the country without a navy or air force and with a crippled economy, citing a 301% inflation rate. He urged voters to remember Netanyahu as an "outstanding fighter" and to "complete the mission we started."