In Jerusalem on November 6, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his supporters celebrated Donald Trump’s election victory, viewing him as a reliable ally expected to support Israel’s interests. Netanyahu praised Trump for achieving what he called “history’s greatest comeback” and expressed hope for renewed strength in U.S.-Israel relations, a sentiment shared by the leaders of the right-wing parties in Netanyahu’s coalition.
Meanwhile, Hamas, the Palestinian militant organization involved in the ongoing Gaza conflict, issued a statement calling for a shift in U.S. policy toward a less supportive stance on Israel, with a Hamas official urging Trump to avoid what they called Biden’s “mistakes.”
Trump’s victory was a relief for Netanyahu’s coalition, which had faced tensions with Biden’s administration over conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. During the election night, Netanyahu dismissed his Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who had been favored by the U.S. under Biden. Gallant’s ouster sparked protests in Israel but was celebrated by Netanyahu’s faction. Gallant’s replacement, Israel Katz, stated that Trump’s win would likely reinforce the U.S.-Israel alliance, aiding in the effort to secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza.
Trump’s first term had seen significant support for Israeli interests, including U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and of Israeli control over the Golan Heights. It remains uncertain whether his new administration will provide similar support, given the escalating regional conflict. However, Israeli settler leaders welcomed Trump’s return, hopeful that he would reverse U.S. sanctions imposed by Biden’s administration on certain settler groups involved in West Bank violence.
Amid rising regional tensions, the Israeli military reported that rockets from Lebanon had targeted areas in Israel, including Tel Aviv, though no injuries were reported. A recent survey by the Israel Democracy Institute showed nearly two-thirds of Israelis view Trump as a more favorable ally for Israel than Kamala Harris. Trump’s prior actions, such as moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, were cited by Israelis as proof of his commitment to Israel’s priorities.
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