Israeli Government
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his supporters celebrated Donald Trump’s election as president, hailing the former president as a staunch ally who would offer unwavering support.
A leader of Israel’s settler movement highlighted Trump’s “unconditional” backing, reinforcing expectations that the new administration would strengthen ties between the two nations.
Netanyahu, in his congratulatory message, referred to Trump’s victory as “history’s greatest comeback.” He expressed optimism, stating, “Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America.”
These sentiments were echoed by key figures within Netanyahu’s hard-right nationalist coalition, who see Trump’s leadership as pivotal in furthering Israel’s interests.
The Palestinian militant group Hamas, however, took a neutral stance on the election, framing it as an internal matter for the American people.
A Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri, did urge Trump to “learn from Biden’s mistakes” and called for an end to the United States’ “blind support” of Israel. This perspective underscored the longstanding conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups, particularly regarding the ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Netanyahu’s government welcomed Trump’s victory as a potential turning point, following a period of strained relations with the Democratic administration of Joe Biden. Biden’s approach, particularly concerning conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, had created international backlash and protests.
As Trump’s win was being confirmed, Netanyahu seized the moment to dismiss his Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, a move that was seen as controversial due to Gallant’s favored status with the Biden administration and the U.S. military.
The dismissal of Gallant came at a critical moment, with Israel facing multiple regional threats, including the potential for a broader conflict with Iran.
Despite protests against Gallant’s removal, Netanyahu’s allies welcomed the decision, positioning his replacement, Israel Katz, as a key figure who would help secure Israel’s interests, including the safe return of hostages from Gaza.
Trump’s previous administration had been a major boon for Netanyahu, delivering significant diplomatic victories, such as the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and the acknowledgment of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
However, questions remain about how Trump will navigate the current volatile situation, which could draw the U.S. into deeper involvement in the Middle East.
The Israeli settler movement, which had clashed with Biden’s administration over sanctions and asset freezes imposed on those involved in violence in the West Bank, also celebrated Trump’s return.
Israel Ganz, chairman of the Yesha settler council, expressed confidence that Trump would continue to stand firmly by Israel’s side, particularly in their “fight against the broader threats to the West.”
The geopolitical landscape remains tense, with 10 rockets fired from Lebanon into Israel on Wednesday, targeting areas including Tel Aviv. While no injuries were reported, the situation underscores the fragile security environment that the Trump administration will have to address.
According to a survey by the Israel Democracy Institute, nearly two-thirds of Israelis believe Trump would be better for Israel than his Democratic rival, Kamala Harris.
This sentiment was echoed by many Israelis, including Jerusalem resident Nissim Attias, who expressed confidence in Trump’s leadership, noting that “he proved last time that he kept his promises, moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem.”
As Trump prepares to take office again, both Israel and its adversaries will be watching closely to see how his administration approaches the complex challenges in the region.
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