Report: Trump Distrusts Netanyahu, Eyes New Israeli Leadership for ME Deals

Occupied Palestine (Quds News Network)- Israeli newspaper Maariv reported that close associates of US President-elect Donald Trump have delivered a concerning message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to the report, Trump remains upset with Netanyahu despite their meetings and public displays of warmth. The message suggests Trump has completely lost trust in Netanyahu.
Leaks indicate Trump is considering a regional normalization deal in the Middle East. However, he reportedly believes Netanyahu cannot lead this effort. Sources say Trump views a new right-wing leader in Israel as essential for achieving a “historic peace agreement” with Saudi Arabia.
A source familiar with Trump’s team stated, “With Netanyahu’s declining popularity, it’s hard to imagine him uniting Israel’s right-wing camp to advance such initiatives. New leadership is needed to make the necessary compromises for a historic breakthrough.”
Trump’s political relationships are heavily based on personal loyalty, Maariv added. The former president has not forgotten Netanyahu’s early congratulations to Joe Biden after Trump lost the 2020 election.
Although Trump outwardly supports Israel, the leaks suggest his backing does not extend to Netanyahu personally. Trump, known for prioritizing loyalty, reportedly demands a high price for perceived disloyalty.
This tension mirrors Trump’s growing distance from former allies like Nikki Haley and Mike Pompeo during his second term. Such moves have increased Netanyahu’s concerns.
Strained relations between Trump and Netanyahu could impact US-Israel ties, especially regarding Palestinian issues and normalization with Arab states. A shift in US policy toward Netanyahu might also jeopardize his political future amid deep divisions in Israel.
These developments come at a critical time for Netanyahu. He is under pressure to conclude the Gaza war with a political and strategic success that salvages his legacy. Internally, his government faces mounting criticism following the October 7 military operation.