"The devil he knows": Behind Trump's support for Netanyahu
A Maariv report, based on an Axios dispatch, reveals that behind Trump's public support for Netanyahu lies growing criticism within the US administration, mainly over the war in Iran. One of his advisors described his attitude toward Netanyahu as "the devil he knows." Vice President Vance and other senior officials opposed the decision to support Netanyahu. Recent polls indicate a weakening of Netanyahu's bloc, with only 50 seats, compared to 52-56 for the Eisenkot bloc.
A Maariv report, based on an Axios dispatch, reveals the tension behind US President Donald Trump's public support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. One of Trump's advisors described his attitude toward Netanyahu as: "He is the devil he knows." According to sources familiar with the discussions, many of Trump's close advisors opposed the decision to support Netanyahu, believing the president should avoid interfering in Israeli elections. Vice President JD Vance and other senior administration officials were disappointed with Netanyahu during the war in Iran, believing his assessments presented to the White House were incorrect. The article notes that Trump may benefit in any scenario: if Netanyahu wins, Trump can claim he helped him; if he loses, the new leadership will have an interest in fostering good relations with him. Meanwhile, polls published on Friday indicate a weakening of Netanyahu, with his bloc expected to win only 50 seats, and the opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot receiving 52-56 seats. The article raises concern in Washington about a political deadlock and a prolonged transitional government.