Trump may leverage his position to reshape U.S.-Israel relations.
Netanyahu's relationship with Biden could complicate his standing with Trump.
Financial aid dynamics may play a crucial role in future U.S. foreign policy.
Trump's administration may adopt a more hands-off approach toward Israel.
Potential shifts in Israeli political alliances could arise in response to U.S. pressure.
Netanyahu's political future may be at risk if Trump decides to withdraw support.
Trump’s Potential Shift in U.S.-Israel Relations
In a recent opinion piece published in Haaretz, Israeli writer Eran Yashiv speculated that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump may seek to remove Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from power due to what he describes as Netanyahu's "high maintenance" nature. Yashiv argues that Trump's interest in distancing himself from Netanyahu could stem from the Israeli leader's perceived need for constant attention and support, which may not align with Trump's evolving foreign policy priorities.
Yashiv highlights that Trump's administration has been marked by a desire to minimize U.S. financial commitments abroad, particularly in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Israel. With Israel receiving nearly $18 billion in military aid from the U.S. over the past year, Trump’s reluctance to continue such expenditures could lead to a reevaluation of U.S.-Israel relations. The opinion piece suggests that Trump's disdain for Netanyahu, particularly in light of the Israeli Prime Minister's rapport with President Joe Biden, might further fuel this potential rift.
Strategies for Change
The article posits two potential strategies Trump could employ to facilitate Netanyahu's ousting. The first involves signaling to Israeli political parties, especially the more extreme factions, that Netanyahu's political future is bleak, which could prompt them to act accordingly. The second strategy would involve exerting financial pressure on Netanyahu and his Likud party through a "carrot and stick" approach, thereby leveraging U.S. influence to instigate a change in leadership.
Following the recent elections, Netanyahu's office confirmed a warm conversation between the two leaders, where they discussed mutual concerns, including the Iranian threat. Netanyahu publicly expressed his hopes for a renewed commitment to the U.S.-Israel alliance following Trump's election victory.
