Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered a rare glimpse into his relationship with President Donald Trump, praising the president’s “wicked sense of humor” and their shared commitment to protecting their nations from common threats.
Speaking on “Life, Liberty & Levin,” the Israeli leader told host Mark Levin that his relationship with Trump is built on years of mutual understanding and shared security concerns. Netanyahu said their partnership could continue to “bring security” if he wins Israel’s upcoming election.
“I always recognize he’s the president of the United States, he does what he thinks is good for the United States. And that’s exactly what he does. I do the same for Israel,” Netanyahu said. “And I’m glad that it often, very often, this meshes.”
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Netanyahu also highlighted Trump’s personal warmth, a side of the president he said many people may not know about.
“Our rapport not only comes from knowing each other for so many years, it’s also from understanding that we face a common danger and that we have to protect our common future. And that’s really it,” Netanyahu said.
“Aside from the fact it’s fun being with him, I mean, I don’t know. Most people don’t know that he has a wicked sense of humor. I mean, he can be very funny and very warm. And so, I treasure this relationship,” he added.
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Israel is preparing to hold its first national election since the Oct. 7, 2023, terror attacks and the wars that followed, with voters set to head to the polls Oct. 27. When asked about his political future, Netanyahu said he’s focused on winning re-election.
“First, I have to get elected,” Netanyahu said. “And by the way, I fight every campaign as though I’m [going to] lose, and that’s the only reason I win. But I have to fight it in the coming week, and I will.”
“But God willing, if I’m elected, then this partnership will continue to bring security and bring peace,” he added.
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Netanyahu is Israel’s longest-serving prime minister and has worked closely with Trump during both of Trump’s presidential terms. While their relationship remains close, it has not been without friction.
Earlier this year, Trump confirmed reports of a heated phone call during which he called Netanyahu “f—ing crazy” over Israel’s military operations in Lebanon. Trump also emphasized that he “really love[s] Bibi” and works with him “excellently.” Netanyahu later described the disagreement on CNBC as “tactical disagreements” that happen “in the best of families.”
The full interview airs Saturday, Oct. 17, at 8 p.m. ET on “Life, Liberty & Levin.”