Netanyahu Urges Wider Alliances Amid US Support Concerns

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on October 18 that Israel should strengthen ties with India and other countries as it prepares for the possibility of a less supportive US administration after Donald Trump leaves office. He presented the call as part of a security doctrine, warning that a future US president could be hostile to Israel. Netanyahu said Israel should make use of the remaining time under Trump while continuing to prepare for changing conditions in Washington. He cited India as a potential partner and pointed to Latin America, including possible political change in Brazil, as an opportunity to broaden Israel’s alliances. He did not identify specific agreements or commitments from prospective partners. The remarks came nine days before Israel’s October 27 parliamentary election. Netanyahu linked the diplomatic push to the need to build relationships beyond the United States, while also saying Israel should continue working with Washington through both favorable and difficult periods. His comments raised the possibility of reduced US support and other measures by a future administration, but did not set out a detailed plan for how the proposed...