Trump Team Eyes Israeli Opposition

US President Donald Trump's inner circle is preparing for a potential shift in Israel's leadership. According to US officials, advisers are optimistic about the prospect of working with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political rivals if the incumbent loses the country's election. This signals a flexible diplomatic stance for Washington in the days ahead.

One key Trump adviser described the current dynamic with a stark metaphor. The official told reporters that Netanyahu is the devil that Trump knows. This comment highlights the personal comfort the President feels with the Israeli leader, even as his team considers other options.

There is notable disagreement within the White House regarding the US endorsement of Netanyahu. Many of the President's closest advisers opposed his decision to back the Israeli Prime Minister. These officials believed the United States should have stayed out of the election entirely to avoid favoring one side over the other.

Vice President JD Vance has taken a more measured public approach to the race. When asked about the contest this week, he clarified that he was not attacking or endorsing Netanyahu personally. Vance stated that the President's endorsement is the one that ultimately matters to the American public.

Tensions regarding Israeli policy are also visible within the administration. US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack voiced concerns about the Netanyahu government's strategy in Syria. Following Israeli strikes on a base in the northern Idlib province, Barrack called the move an unnecessary escalation that does not help regional stability.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his team maintain a stronger relationship with the Prime Minister. However, they believe Israel could do more to strengthen Lebanon's government. The State Department has also expressed frustration with what they see as a failure to curb settler attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank.

These internal discussions come as Netanyahu's polling numbers weaken ahead of the vote scheduled for October 27. A recent Maariv poll indicates the opposition bloc has widened its lead to 54 seats. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's bloc has dropped to 48 seats, suggesting a tighter race than previously thought.

The survey reveals a public leaning toward compromise. Sixty percent of respondents said they would prefer a unity government if the election does not produce a clear majority. Only 23% favored holding another election, while 17% remained undecided about the best path forward.

Among those who support a unity government, 33% want a candidate from the opposition bloc to lead it. Only 19% prefer Netanyahu to head such a coalition. Another 8% support a unity government regardless of who leads it. In a direct matchup, opposition leader Eisenkot leads Netanyahu with 49% support compared to 41% for the incumbent.