Leaders of the Israeli settler movement have expressed particular optimism, envisioning “unconditional” US backing under Trump
News Desk
TEL AVIV: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his coalition allies welcomed Donald Trump’s election with enthusiasm, viewing it as a strong reaffirmation of the US-Israel alliance. Netanyahu, declaring Trump’s win “history’s greatest comeback,” underscored hopes for renewed support under a leader who previously demonstrated strong pro-Israel policies. Netanyahu’s coalition, which includes nationalist and religious hard-right factions, sees Trump’s return as an opportunity to regain some of the political ground lost in strained relations with Biden’s administration.
Leaders of the Israeli settler movement have expressed particular optimism, envisioning “unconditional” US backing under Trump. This election outcome relieves the Netanyahu government, which has faced mounting international pressure and protests amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The Biden administration, while supportive of Israel’s security, clashed with Netanyahu on approaches to these conflicts, even imposing sanctions on settler groups involved in violence in the West Bank. As part of the political shakeup, Netanyahu also dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, a trusted interlocutor of Biden’s administration, replacing him with Israel Katz, a staunch Trump supporter.
Katz has already expressed confidence that Trump’s presidency will help secure the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. In Jerusalem, many residents are hopeful for stronger ties with the US under Trump. His prior tenure is remembered for pivotal policy changes such as the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem and the recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. As tensions escalate with rocket fire from Lebanon and a multifaceted war in Gaza, however, analysts like Burcu Ozcelik from the Royal United Services Institute caution that Trump’s influence over Netanyahu’s more radical positions remains uncertain.
This enthusiastic response from the Israeli right contrasts with skepticism from Palestinian leadership. Hamas has warned Trump against the “blind support” of Israel that characterized his first term, calling instead for a more balanced US approach to the region. Palestinian leaders are deeply wary of Trump’s potential impact, especially given the ongoing violence and devastating conditions in Gaza. Meanwhile, some Palestinians in the West Bank, like President Mahmoud Abbas, continue to advocate for a diplomatic approach, expressing cautious hope for a renewed peace initiative under the new administration.
