Trump Signals Possible Endorsement of Netanyahu Amid Tensions

President Donald Trump has suggested he may support Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the upcoming Israeli elections. He indicated potential endorsement despite recent public disagreements over issues in Iran and Lebanon.

In a conversation with Israel’s public broadcaster KAN News, Trump stated, “I’ll have to look at who’s running, but I like Bibi very much. I would be most likely to endorse him.” Trump, using Netanyahu’s familiar nickname, added that while he appreciates his relationship with Netanyahu, the Israeli leader should be more rational. Trump is open to meeting him, acknowledging Netanyahu’s good performance though emphasizing more rational actions.

A recent photograph shows President Trump greeting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House in Washington, D.C. on September 29, 2025.

The statements emerge amidst Trump’s sharp criticism of Netanyahu, even as U.S. diplomacy in the Middle East involves negotiations with Iran and Lebanon. Axios reported that Trump harshly criticized Netanyahu over Israeli actions in Lebanon, characterizing the Israeli leader as “f—ing crazy.” Trump later confirmed his remarks during an interview on the New York Post’s “Pod Force One” podcast, affirming his positive view of Netanyahu and their effective working relationship.

Tensions further escalated after Israel’s military actions in Beirut, which nearly hindered the signing of a U.S.-Iran deal. Trump’s frustration was evident as he described being “so pissed off” over the incident and criticized Netanyahu’s judgment, while maintaining confidence in the Iran agreement’s progress.

On Wednesday, Trump referred to the discord with Netanyahu as a “little dispute” regarding Lebanon, suggesting Netanyahu sometimes becomes overly enthusiastic. Trump opined, “You can do a little softer touch, maybe you don’t need to bring down a building every time a Hezbollah member walks into it.”

Meanwhile, Netanyahu has emphasized his friendly relationship with Trump, frequently praising him as “our great friend” and “my personal friend” in official remarks. He notes their regular communications and joint decision-making.

Vice President JD Vance also addressed related concerns, engaging with The New York Times about the Iran nuclear deal. He assured that U.S. sanctions would not lift unless Iran altered its support for organizations like Hezbollah. Vance highlighted a “weird panic” in Israel regarding the deal, asserting that circumstances favorable to Iran require behavioral change, as outlined in the agreement.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the White House and the Israeli embassy for their comments.