Trump hints at endorsing candidate in Israeli election, despite calling it best to 'stay out'

Former US President Donald Trump has suggested he may endorse a candidate in the upcoming Israeli election, even as he acknowledged it would be "most appropriate" for him to remain uninvolved. Speaking to FOX News, Trump stated, "I think it's most appropriate for me to stay out of the Israeli elections," but immediately added, "I may endorse somebody."

These remarks follow reports that figures close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political rivals, including Gadi Eisenkot and Naftali Bennett, have conveyed messages through intermediaries asking Trump to maintain neutrality. The comments also come after an Axios report indicated Trump questioned Netanyahu about the Likud party's polling numbers during a late July visit to Washington.

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I think it's most appropriate for me to stay out of the Israeli elections.

Trump also used the call to reiterate his plea for Israel to show restraint and avoid targeted strikes in Gaza. He emphasized that such actions could hinder the advancement of his 20-point plan for Gaza. Meanwhile, a delegation including Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Nickolay Mladenov, and Tony Blair met with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem, reportedly to increase US pressure for progress on the Gaza plan.

Israeli general elections are scheduled for October 27. Netanyahu had hoped to secure Trump's support for his reelection campaign ahead of this vote.

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I may endorse somebody.