Netanyahu to run in next elections, Likud says after Trump doubts

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party announced Wednesday that he will contest upcoming elections — reaffirming his political ambitions one day after US President Donald Trump publicly questioned whether the premier intends to remain in office following the war with Iran.

Likud reaffirms candidacy

The ruling party issued a statement on the US social media platform X to clarify Netanyahu's intentions after the American leader's remarks sparked speculation. "Prime Minister Netanyahu will run in the next elections — and, hopefully, will win," the party said, dismissing any suggestion that the premier might step aside once hostilities conclude.

Trump casts doubt

Speaking to ABC News' Jonathan Karl on Tuesday, Trump voiced uncertainty about Netanyahu's future plans, noting the Israeli leader's lengthy career and the approaching end of hostilities. "I don't know, he's had an amazing career," Trump said, according to Karl's X post. He added: "Does he want to continue? Because, you know he's a wartime prime minister. We will very shortly win the war one way or the other, and you know he's a wartime prime minister."

Trump's interview comments marked a rare public questioning of Netanyahu's political longevity by a close ally, coming as Israel remains engaged in military operations against Iran. The timing of Israel's next elections has not been formally announced, though speculation has mounted regarding the premier's post-war political trajectory.