Trump endorses Netanyahu nine days before Israeli election

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection on October 18, nine days before Israel’s national vote, saying the United States might otherwise have to confront Iran itself. The election is scheduled for October 27, 2026. In a post on Truth Social addressed to Israelis, Trump called Netanyahu a “Great Warrior Prime Minister” and a strong, brave and brilliant partner. He said Netanyahu had helped combat Iran and gave him his “Complete and Total Endorsement” for another term as prime minister. Trump also warned that if Israelis chose anyone other than Netanyahu, the United States would have to do the work against Iran itself, adding that he was not inclined to do so. He said Iran had been systematically weakened militarily and financially and threatened further action if it did not change course. The statements were Trump’s; the reports did not establish what steps the United States might take. Netanyahu thanked Trump in a statement in Hebrew posted on X. His Likud Party also shared a video featuring the two leaders together and Trump praising Netanyahu, according to one report. The endorsement came as Netanyahu faces a competitive...