US President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed that his endorsement helped Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu perform better than expected in the election. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said his support changed the course of the election. He argued that Netanyahu had moved from facing a possible defeat to having a chance of winning. "When President Trump endorsed Bibi Netanyahu, the whole tide turned, and now, rather than a decisive defeat for a great prime minister, it looks like a big come-from-behind stalemate, or even a win for Netanyahu. It all took place after the endorsement by President Trump, who only wants what is good for the Middle East, Israel, and the United States of America!" said Trump in a post.

Netanyahu's Likud Emerges as the Largest Party

Netanyahu's Likud party emerged as the largest party in Tuesday's election. His far-right coalition also moved ahead of the opposition alliance led by Gadi Eisenkot. However, Netanyahu's coalition has not secured a parliamentary majority. His performance has still exceeded expectations, as opinion polls had predicted a close contest between the two sides.

Netanyahu's Coalition Leads the Opposition

According to the votes counted so far, Netanyahu's coalition is winning 55 seats in the 120-member parliament. Eisenkot's opposition bloc is winning 49 seats. Although Netanyahu's coalition has taken the lead, it still needs additional support to secure a majority and form a government.

Arab Parties Could Play a Key Role

Arab parties, which do not formally support either bloc, have secured a record 16 seats. Their strong performance could make them key players in determining the next government. The election results leave both major blocs short of a parliamentary majority. The Arab parties' position could therefore influence negotiations over the formation of the next administration.

'Strong, Brave, and Brilliant': Trump Praises Netanyahu

Trump endorsed Netanyahu earlier this month in a post on Truth Social. The Israeli prime minister quickly highlighted the US president's support during his election campaign. Netanyahu repeatedly referred to Trump's endorsement during the final days of campaigning. Campaign posters also featured both leaders, presenting their political relationship as an advantage for Netanyahu. Trump described Netanyahu as a strong and capable leader. He also said the Israeli prime minister was the kind of partner the United States wanted.

Trump Reaffirms His Support for Netanyahu

Trump's endorsement presented Netanyahu as a leader who could strengthen Israel's relationship with Washington. The US president also stressed America's support for Israel. "This is the kind of partner that the United States of America is demanding of Israel, a country for which it has done so much. Please let this Letter serve to represent my complete and total endorsement of Bibi Netanyahu in his upcoming race for re-election as Prime Minister of Israel," said Trump.

Netanyahu Faces the Challenge of Forming a Government

Trump's latest remarks highlight his continued support for Netanyahu. However, the Israeli prime minister still needs enough parliamentary support to form a government. The final political outcome will depend on coalition negotiations and the positions taken by parties outside the two main blocs. With Arab parties holding a record number of seats, their role could prove significant in determining Israel's next government.