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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing growing political pressure ahead of the October 27 election, with opinion polls showing his coalition falling short of the 61 seats needed to form a government.
Adding to Netanyahu’s difficulties, U.S. President Donald Trump has so far stopped short of endorsing him, despite their long-standing alliance.
The hesitation comes amid growing differences over Gaza, after Netanyahu rejected Trump’s U.S.-backed peace plan that calls for a phased Israeli withdrawal in exchange for Hamas disarmament.
Netanyahu is also under pressure from far-right coalition partners, who oppose concessions on Gaza and demand a tougher military stance.
Analysts say he is caught between maintaining support from his right-wing base and avoiding a deeper rift with Washington.
Recent polling has shown Netanyahu’s Likud behind Gadi Eisenkot’s Yashar party, further intensifying concerns about his political future.
Trump’s decision to remain publicly noncommittal could therefore become an important factor in Netanyahu’s campaign as the election approaches.
