Politico Report: Israeli Election Outlook Dashes Washington’s Hopes for US-Israel Relations Reset
A report by the American website Politico indicates that the anticipated results of the Israeli elections and the likely political stalemate have shattered hopes in Washington for a reset of US-Israel relations. Many in the US had hoped for an opposition victory to mend ties, which they attribute to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, despite President Trump’s public support for him.
According to Politico, critics of the Israeli Prime Minister span the American political spectrum, from Democrats to Republicans who oppose US intervention in Iran, including figures like Vice President J.D. Vance. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy specifically alleged that Netanyahu represents an obstacle to the US withdrawing from the conflict in Iran, predicting that if re-elected, Netanyahu would remain “a very influential voice in Trump’s ear” pushing for regime change in Tehran.
A former White House official, close to the President, explained that Trump’s support for Netanyahu stems from their personal relationship and tactical calculations aimed at ensuring continuity should the Likud party win. The official noted that any new Prime Minister would need presidential backing to be introduced to the American public.
The same source also revealed that even “pro-Israel” advocates in the US prefer a gradual change in the Israeli government, such as the formation of a national unity government that excludes currently influential “extremist elements” like Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir.
