Netanyahu Speaks With Trump Ahead of Election; Trump Says "You're Someone I Want by My Side," Backs Him

Netanyahu Posts Video of Phone Call on X

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump, who had publicly endorsed him ahead of Israel's general election on Oct. 27, and expressed his gratitude.

According to the Associated Press and other media outlets on Oct. 19 local time, Netanyahu posted footage of his call with Trump that day on his X (formerly Twitter) account. Alongside the video, he wrote in Hebrew, "I thank President Trump for his tremendous support and cooperation. Together, we will complete this mission."

Trump voiced his support for Netanyahu, saying he had personally written the endorsement statement without any involvement from his staff. On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said, "You are a warrior. You have been treated very unfairly by your country and perhaps by many other places. But you are a great warrior and prime minister."

U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leave after a joint press conference in the State Reception Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 29 last year. Washington, D.C. (U.S.)=AFP Yonhap News.

He continued, "I had always been thinking of doing it. In fact, I think you are going to win a tremendous victory." Trump also referred to Netanyahu by his nickname, "Bibi." He added, "Bibi, you are someone I want to have by my side."

During the call, Netanyahu also cited the Iran issue and the task of expanding the Abraham Accords, agreements to normalize relations between Israel and Arab countries, saying the two leaders had "unfinished business" to complete together and signaling his determination to return to power.

The Associated Press analyzed, "The lack of an endorsement from President Donald Trump had been a major blow to Netanyahu," adding, "That is because he has touted his close ties with the Republican Party as a key strength."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.