Por Renan Filho · 2026-10-17**Lead**
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday praised former U.S. President Donald Trump's "wicked sense of humor" and vigorously defended the "ironclad" alliance between Washington and Jerusalem, just days before Israelis head to the polls in what analysts describe as the most consequential election in the country's recent history. Speaking to a group of international journalists in Jerusalem, Netanyahu sought to project confidence and continuity, even as domestic political turmoil and regional security threats dominate the national conversation.
**Contexto**
The prime minister's remarks come at a delicate moment. Israel's fifth election in under four years is scheduled for Tuesday, and Netanyahu faces a stiff challenge from a coalition of centrist and right-wing rivals who have made his ongoing corruption trial a central campaign issue. The 73-year-old leader, who has served as prime minister for a total of 15 years, is fighting to retain power while simultaneously managing a volatile security environment, including ongoing tensions with Iran and its proxies, and a fragile ceasefire in Gaza.
Netanyahu's relationship with Trump has been a defining feature of his political brand. During Trump's presidency, the U.S. recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, brokered the Abraham Accords normalizing relations with several Arab nations, and withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal—moves that Netanyahu has repeatedly touted as diplomatic triumphs. "He has a wicked sense of humor, but he also has a deep understanding of the Middle East," Netanyahu said, responding to a question about his rapport with the former president. "We worked together on many things, and Israel is safer because of that cooperation."
The prime minister was careful, however, to emphasize that the alliance with the United States transcends any single administration. "Our relationship with America is not about one person or one party," he added. "It is about shared values, shared interests, and a shared commitment to security and democracy. That is ironclad, and it will remain so regardless of who sits in the Oval Office."
**Analise**
Netanyahu's comments appear designed to appeal to two distinct audiences. Domestically, he is reinforcing his image as a statesman who can navigate the complex U.S. political landscape—a credential that has historically resonated with Israeli voters who prioritize national security. By invoking Trump, he reminds his base of the tangible benefits they enjoyed during those years, from the Golan Heights recognition to the normalization deals. At the same time, his nod to bipartisanship is a subtle acknowledgment that the next U.S. administration—whether led by a Democrat or a Republican—will demand a working relationship.
The timing is also significant. With the U.S. midterm elections just weeks away, Netanyahu is signaling that Israel is prepared to work with whichever party emerges victorious. His careful balancing act reflects a broader Israeli strategy of maintaining strong ties across the American political spectrum, even as the U.S. political climate grows increasingly polarized. Analysts note that Netanyahu's public affection for Trump, while genuine, is also a calculated move to shore up support among right-leaning American Jews and evangelical Christians, who remain influential in U.S. politics and are strong supporters of Israel.
Yet the prime minister's embrace of Trump is not without risks. Trump's presidency was marked by controversy, and his refusal to concede the 2020 election and his role in the January 6 Capitol riot have made him a polarizing figure. Netanyahu's willingness to align himself so closely with Trump could alienate more moderate Israeli voters and complicate relations with a future Democratic administration. Still, the prime minister appears to be betting that the strategic benefits outweigh the political costs.
As Israelis prepare to cast their ballots, the election is shaping up to be a referendum on Netanyahu's leadership and his vision for the country's future. His opponents, led by former Prime Minister Yair Lapid and Defense Minister Benny Gantz, have promised a "new era" of governance, focusing on domestic issues such as the cost of living and political reform. Netanyahu, meanwhile, is doubling down on his record as a security hawk and diplomatic maestro, hoping that voters will choose stability over change.
The outcome of Tuesday's vote remains too close to call, with recent polls showing a dead heat between the pro-Netanyahu bloc and the opposition. A strong showing by his Likud party could pave the way for a coalition government, while a poor result might spell the end of his political career. In either scenario, the U.S.-Israel relationship will remain a cornerstone of both nations' foreign policy, as the region continues to grapple with the Iranian nuclear threat, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the broader realignment of Middle Eastern alliances.
**Fontes**
This report is based on public statements made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a press briefing in Jerusalem, as well as on background information provided by diplomatic sources familiar with U.S.-Israel relations. Additional context was drawn from recent election polling data published by Israeli media outlets and from official statements issued by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office.