Israeli Government Welcomes Trump Victory, But Fears U.S. Pressure Under Biden’s Final Weeks

Agencies with Inputs from NBC News, November 6, 2024, Tel Aviv : The Israeli government is celebrating Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election, with officials optimistic about the policies the incoming president is likely to pursue. However, there is a sense of apprehension about the final two months of the Biden administration, with concerns that Washington could increase pressure on Israel in its last days, two Israeli officials told NBC News.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was among the first world leaders to offer congratulations to Trump, and Israeli officials believe the incoming administration will bring a more supportive stance on key issues, particularly Iran and Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Trump’s re-election is expected to result in a more hawkish U.S. foreign policy that will benefit Israel, especially in its dealings with Tehran and its settlement expansion plans.

However, despite their optimism about the future, Israeli leaders are acutely aware that they still have to navigate the remaining months of President Joe Biden’s term. In particular, Israeli officials are worried that the U.S. might increase pressure in its final weeks, especially with a looming mid-November deadline for Israel to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin have already warned that failure to meet this deadline could result in a cutback or limitation of U.S. military support for Israel.

The Israeli government is said to be exploring ways to wind down the war in Gaza quickly, hoping that a ceasefire or an early end to hostilities could help deliver a diplomatic victory to Trump early in his term. This would likely strengthen Israel’s position moving forward, allowing them to cement a positive relationship with the new U.S. president while avoiding tensions with the outgoing administration.

With Biden's influence still looming, Israeli officials are bracing for what may come in the next two months — balancing their desire for a strong partnership with Trump’s administration with the challenges posed by Biden’s final efforts to influence policy.