Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thanked U.S. President Donald Trump after Trump publicly endorsed him ahead of Israel’s October 27 election.
Trump announced what he described as his “complete and total endorsement” of Netanyahu, praising the Israeli leader and highlighting their cooperation in confronting Iran. Netanyahu responded by saying he was “honored and humbled” by what he called Trump’s “extraordinary endorsement.”
The endorsement comes as Netanyahu campaigns for another term with national security and Iran at the centre of his message.
Speaking separately, Netanyahu said bringing down Iran’s current government remains one of his objectives, declaring that the leadership in Tehran “cannot remain in power.” His comments come amid continuing tensions involving Israel, the United States and Iran.
Israel’s election is scheduled for October 27, with Netanyahu’s Likud-led bloc facing a closely contested race against opposition parties.