Trump Advisers See Potential for Improved Ties Without Netanyahu

ISTANBUL — October 24, 2026

Several senior advisers to US President Donald Trump reportedly believe that working with an Israeli government without Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could be easier for Washington as it pursues its regional objectives, according to a report published by Axios on Saturday.

The reported concerns come despite Trump’s public support for Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s election on Tuesday. According to the report, dissatisfaction with the Israeli premier has increased within Trump’s inner circle over the past six months, particularly following the conflict with Iran and disagreements over broader US policy in the Middle East.

US Vice President JD Vance is among the senior officials reportedly growing frustrated with Netanyahu. Some officials have questioned the Israeli leader’s assessments presented to the White House before the war with Iran, believing they may have been inaccurate.

When asked about the Israeli election, Vance avoided directly endorsing Netanyahu and instead emphasized that Trump’s position was the key consideration.

Concerns have also emerged over Israel’s policies in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon and the occupied West Bank. Some Trump advisers reportedly believe Netanyahu has been reluctant to make sufficient progress on the president’s proposed Gaza peace plan and to prevent attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians.

Trump’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have reportedly expressed frustration over delays in implementing the Gaza initiative. Meanwhile, envoy Tom Barrack has raised concerns about Israeli military operations in Syria.

Officials working with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also reportedly believe Israel could take stronger steps to support and strengthen Lebanon’s government.

Despite these disagreements, Trump publicly backed Netanyahu on Sunday, warning that an Israeli election defeat for the prime minister could affect relations between Washington and Tel Aviv.

However, some members of Trump’s team reportedly believe that a new Israeli government without Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners could provide the United States with greater diplomatic flexibility. Such a change, they believe, could help Washington advance negotiations and pursue regional agreements more effectively.
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