20.06.2026 08:20
The cold winds between the administration of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have given way to a diplomatic maneuver. The Israeli press suggested that Washington is seeking to establish unofficial channels of communication with Netanyahu's strong rivals, Naftali Bennett and Gadi Eisenkot, ahead of the upcoming elections.
Differences of opinion between the United States and Israel, particularly over Gaza policies and cabinet decisions, are deepening. While news about tensions between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains fresh, Tel Aviv-based news outlet Channel 12 shared a bombshell claim.
STRONGEST CANDIDATES FOR PRIME MINISTER: BENNETT AND EIZENKOT
According to Channel 12's report, some senior officials in the Trump administration have moved to establish unofficial contacts with opposition leaders ahead of elections planned in Israel no later than October. At the top of the list of figures Washington wants to communicate with are former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and former Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, who stand out as the strongest candidates for prime minister in polls.
US DISCOMFORT WITH NETANYAHU'S CABINET GROWS
The report also highlighted the main reasons behind the Washington administration bypassing the current government and turning to alternative political figures. According to the news, US officials are increasingly disturbed by the rhetoric and actions of far-right figures holding key positions in Netanyahu's cabinet.
GAZA POLICY BLOCKS DIPLOMATIC PROCESS
Another critical issue causing US discontent is Gaza. The Washington administration believes that the Israeli government's current Gaza policy is seriously damaging the country's international image and blocking possible diplomatic resolution processes in the region.
ELECTION FORECAST: NETANYAHU WILL LOSE
Another important detail at the center of the claims is the US election analysis. It is stated that the Trump administration anticipates Netanyahu will most likely lose the upcoming elections. In line with this political analysis, it is emphasized that Washington has accelerated efforts to establish contact with the opposition front to avoid being caught unprepared for a possible change in power and to secure bilateral relations.