Benjamin Netanyahu’s political party confirmed Wednesday that the Israeli prime minister will pursue re-election this year, following comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump questioning whether Netanyahu would seek another term.
The Likud Party issued a short statement declaring that Netanyahu would compete in the upcoming election and, with divine blessing, would emerge victorious. While the election date hasn’t been officially set, it must take place by October.
The announcement followed remarks from Trump to ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, who shared on X that the former president expressed uncertainty about Netanyahu’s political future.
“I don’t know, he’s had an amazing career. Does he want to continue?” Trump was quoted as telling the journalist.
This will mark the first Israeli election since the October 7, 2023 Hamas assault, which represented the nation’s most severe security breakdown and triggered Israel’s military campaign in the Gaza Strip.
Netanyahu has experienced a challenging period since regaining office in December 2022, leading what has been described as the most right-wing coalition in Israeli history. His government confronted widespread anti-government demonstrations prior to the conflicts involving Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.
Public opinion surveys consistently suggest his coalition would struggle to secure a majority in the next election. Research released June 9 by the Jerusalem-based Israel Democracy Institute think tank indicated that 61% of Israeli citizens believe he should not seek re-election.
Nevertheless, polling data also reveals that opposition parties would likely fall short of a parliamentary majority unless they partner with Arab parties, an alliance some opposition figures have rejected.
According to U.S. and Israeli officials, Trump and Netanyahu maintain a strong relationship despite occasional tensions, including recent disagreements as Trump has urged Israel to reduce military operations in Lebanon while Washington pursues peace negotiations with Tehran. The two leaders jointly initiated the Iran conflict in February.
Trump recently admitted to calling Netanyahu “fucking crazy” during a heated phone conversation, though he emphasized their good working relationship. He has consistently urged Israel’s president to grant Netanyahu a pardon regarding pending corruption allegations, which Netanyahu disputes.
