On the anniversary of the October 7 attacks against Israel, former President Donald Trump made headlines with his bold claims regarding his relationship with the Jewish community and his views on U.S. foreign policy. During a call to the radio show “Sid & Friends,” Trump expressed his belief that he deserved “100% of the Jewish vote,” asserting, “nobody’s done more for the Jewish people than I have.” This statement reflects Trump’s ongoing efforts to solidify his support among Jewish voters, a demographic that has historically leaned Democratic.
Trump’s comments came in the context of a broader discussion about the recent violence in Israel and the geopolitical landscape. He reiterated his stance that the attacks on October 7 would not have occurred had he been in office, framing his presidency as a period of stability for Israel. “October 7 was a disaster, and it would’ve never happened,” he stated emphatically, positioning himself as a strong advocate for Israeli security.
In his remarks, Trump also took a moment to compliment Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, albeit with a hint of criticism. He suggested that while Netanyahu was performing well, he could potentially run for prime minister himself, humorously noting, “Bibi’s doing a lot better right now.” This playful jab underscores Trump’s complex relationship with Israeli leadership, where he often oscillates between admiration and critique.
The former president did not shy away from criticizing current President Joe Biden, whom he labeled “the worst foreign policy president in history.” Trump pointed to various international crises, including the situation in Ukraine and the recent attacks in Israel, as evidence of Biden’s failures. His remarks suggest a belief that his own approach to foreign policy would have yielded better outcomes, a narrative he has consistently promoted since leaving office.
Trump’s critique extended to Biden’s handling of Israel’s military strategy, particularly in response to Iranian aggression. He expressed skepticism about Biden’s advice for Israel to exercise restraint and avoid striking Iran’s nuclear sites. “What you have to do with them is sort of listen to it, because you always have to listen to a president, and then you have to do whatever you want,” Trump advised, indicating that he believes in a more aggressive stance against perceived threats.
Moreover, Trump suggested that Netanyahu might be hindered in his decision-making by Biden’s influence, implying that the Israeli leader could be more decisive if he were not constrained by the current U.S. administration. “He’s not listening at all, you know that, they don’t even speak,” Trump remarked, highlighting a perceived disconnect between the two leaders.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Trump’s comments reflect his ongoing strategy to engage with key voter blocs and assert his foreign policy credentials. His assertions about his past presidency and its impact on U.S.-Israel relations resonate with his base, reinforcing his narrative of strength and leadership in international affairs.
This ongoing dialogue about Israel and U.S. foreign policy underscores the complexities of international relations and the varying perspectives on how best to navigate these challenges. Trump’s remarks serve as a reminder of the significant role that leadership plays in shaping geopolitical dynamics and the importance of public perception in political discourse.