Trump Says He Stands With Israel, Netanyahu After GOP Rivals Denounce Him

Former President Donald Trump said Friday that he stood with Israel and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, as his GOP rivals continued to pointedly denounce his lashing out at Netanyahu days after Hamas deadly attacks.

Former President Donald Trump expressed his support for Israel and its Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday, October 14. Trump's statement came in the wake of criticism from his GOP rivals, who denounced his recent remarks about Netanyahu.

Trump's Controversial Comments

Earlier this week, at a rally in Florida, Trump criticized Netanyahu, accusing him of letting the United States down before the US killed a top Iranian general. He also criticized Israel's intelligence agencies and referred to Hezbollah, a group that Israel fears may launch a large-scale attack, as "very smart."

GOP Rivals Condemn Trump's Remarks

Trump's comments drew widespread condemnation from the White House and his GOP rivals. Former Vice President Mike Pence called Trump's remarks "reckless and irresponsible," while Nikki Haley, former US ambassador to the United Nations, said that the country needs a president who knows the difference between good and evil.

Trump's Defense

Trump's team appeared to be on damage control, sending out statements highlighting his past support for Israel. Trump himself wrote on his Truth Social network, "There was no better friend or ally of Israel than President Donald J. Trump." He also praised the Israeli soldiers fighting Hamas in response to the recent attacks.

Continued Criticism from GOP Rivals

Despite Trump's defense, his GOP rivals continued to criticize him. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie called Trump a "fool" and said that the episode should show everyone how self-consumed he is.

Former President Donald Trump's recent comments about Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have sparked controversy and drawn criticism from his GOP rivals. While Trump has defended his remarks and highlighted his past support for Israel, his rivals have accused him of being reckless and irresponsible. This episode highlights the ongoing divisions within the Republican Party and the challenges Trump faces as he seeks to remain the party's front-runner.