Trump Claims Role in Netanyahu's Election Performance
Donald Trump asserts his endorsement significantly influenced Benjamin Netanyahu's results in Israel's recent elections.
Trump's endorsement reportedly helped Netanyahu's bloc secure 55 seats in the Knesset.
Partial results indicate Netanyahu's bloc is short of a majority to form a government.
Netanyahu praised Trump's support, highlighting a unique friendship between the leaders.
In a recent statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that his endorsement played a crucial role in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's performance in the 26th Knesset election. As of the latest updates, with 57.3% of ballot boxes counted, Netanyahu's bloc is leading with 55 seats, while the opposition has secured 49 seats, indicating a competitive race but not enough for a governing majority.
The election results, released by the Central Elections Committee, also projected that Arab parties would win 16 seats, while smaller parties like Reservists and People of Israel fell below the electoral threshold of 3.25%. The counting of votes cast in double envelopes, including those from soldiers, will continue in the coming days, potentially affecting the final outcome.
Trump took to social media platform Truth Social to share comments from Irving C Schwartz, stating, "When President Trump endorsed Bibi Netanyahu, the whole tide turned." He emphasized that the endorsement shifted the dynamics of the election from a potential defeat to a strong showing for Netanyahu. In a separate appearance near Air Force One, Trump remarked on the unexpected success of Netanyahu, suggesting that the endorsement had a significant impact on the election results.
Netanyahu, in a televised address, acknowledged Trump's support, describing it as unprecedented in the relationship between an Israeli prime minister and a U.S. president. He urged voters to support him, echoing Trump's call to action. The Israeli leader also hinted at possible collaborative actions against Iran, stating that Trump was willing to take measures to eliminate the Iranian threat.
As the election results continue to unfold, Netanyahu has called for the formation of a right-wing government, asserting that his bloc holds a decisive majority among Jewish voters. The situation remains fluid, with further counting and potential coalition negotiations expected in the coming days.
