In a statement, Trump called Netanyahu a “Great Warrior Prime Minister” and an even greater “Partner for Peace”, particularly when it came to confronting Iran.
He referred to Iran's long-standing threats against Israel and the United States, citing what he called its “51 year old chant” of “Death to Israel, Death to America! We will destroy the Little Satan and the Big Satan.”
Trump questioned how any country could live under such threats for decades. Words, he argued, could eventually turn into action, and it was only a matter of time before Iran followed through.
He claimed that Iran had already been weakened on several fronts, both militarily and financially. But the threat, according to Trump, was far from over.
Unless Tehran changed its ways quickly, he warned, the US and its partners would “soon finish the job”.
Trump also made it clear that his support for Netanyahu went beyond personal admiration. He argued that Israel's choice of leader would have consequences for Washington, particularly when it came to dealing with Iran.
If Israel chose the “wrong Leader”, meaning anyone other than Netanyahu, the United States might have to take on the task of confronting Iran itself.
“I am not inclined to do so,” Trump said.
Much of Trump's statement was devoted to Netanyahu's ability to withstand political pressure. Describing him as “Strong, Brave, and Brilliant”, he praised the Israeli leader for standing his ground despite years of criticism and opposition, including from within his own country.
Trump said he had watched Netanyahu navigate some of his most difficult moments. Many others, he suggested, would have buckled under similar circumstances.
Netanyahu, however, had done the opposite. He had grown stronger, Trump claimed, and continued to show the determination that Washington wanted in an Israeli leader.
“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,” Trump said.
He ended the statement by offering Netanyahu his “Complete and Total Endorsement” in the upcoming race for prime minister.
“BIBI NETANYAHU WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” Trump declared.