The key facts

  • On Sunday, Trump announced 'complete and total' support for Netanyahu's re-election in the October 27 elections
  • Sanders called it support of 'one authoritarian leader for another' and called for ending military aid to Israel
  • Trump warned that the US might have to 'take on the burden' if Israelis choose another leader

Sanders' criticism

Senator Bernie Sanders on Monday criticized President Donald Trump for supporting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called for a change in American policy. On the social network X he wrote: 'Trump just endorsed Netanyahu. No surprise. One authoritarian leader helps another stay in power.' Sanders warned that continued cooperation between the two leaders could lead to further conflicts and destruction, adding: 'More war. More destruction. More genocide. We must end a Congress that automatically approves everything the Republican Party does. We must stop all military aid to Israel.'

Trump's endorsement

On Sunday, a week before Israel's October 27 elections, Trump announced on his Truth Social platform his 'Complete and Total Endorsement' of Netanyahu's bid for re-election. In a lengthy post he praised Netanyahu's leadership and his partnership with Washington, especially in confronting Iran, and warned that if Israelis choose another leader, the US might be forced to take on that burden itself.