Trump Likely to Endorse Netanyahu but Wants Him More Rational

Donald Trump said he would "very likely" support Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel's upcoming elections, but made clear the endorsement is not unconditional. In an interview, Trump said Netanyahu needs to be "more rational" and indicated he wants to see the full field of candidates before committing.

"It's very likely that I'll support Netanyahu in the elections, but I need to see who's running," Trump said. He did not explain what he meant by calling for Netanyahu to be more rational, a pointed qualifier given the alliance the two leaders have publicly maintained.

Trump also said he is willing to meet with Netanyahu, a sign that the relationship between the two remains active despite tensions that have flared at points in recent months.

A Trump endorsement carries real weight in Israeli domestic politics. His backing was seen as an asset for the Likud leader in previous election cycles, and public support from a sitting U.S. president draws attention inside Israel. The "more rational" remark, however, introduces an unusual note of public criticism, and Trump offered no specifics on what policy disagreements, if any, lie behind it.

No date has been set for Israel's next elections. Netanyahu's government has faced political pressure, and talk of early elections has come up repeatedly. Trump's comments suggest he is already thinking about the post-election landscape. No date was given for a meeting between the two, but Trump's stated willingness suggests one could be arranged before long.