By Salma El-Sakka
President Donald Trump has claimed credit for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's performance in Tuesday's Knesset election, asserting that his endorsement turned the tide in Netanyahu's favor. While no clear winner has emerged and exit polls indicate neither Netanyahu's bloc nor that of former army chief Gadi Eisenkot will secure a parliamentary majority, Trump posted on Truth Social that his support transformed a potential defeat into a "big come-from-behind stalemate, or even a WIN."
Netanyahu Highlights Trump's Support
Netanyahu featured Trump's endorsement in a televised message on Sunday, describing the U.S. president's friendship as unprecedented. "He has another two years, and he says he is calling on you to vote for me," Netanyahu said, according to Reuters.
U.S. Midterms Loom
The Israeli election comes days before U.S. midterm elections, where Trump is campaigning for Republican candidates amid unfavorable polling. Trump has stated he will respect the midterm results only if he deems them honest.
