Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he supports Brazilian Senator Flávio Bolsonaro in his campaign for the 2026 presidential elections [1].
This endorsement marks a significant diplomatic intervention by Israel in South American politics. By aligning with Bolsonaro, Netanyahu seeks to strengthen ties between the two nations and secure a political ally in one of the world's largest economies.
Netanyahu made the announcement from Israel during the launch of Flávio Bolsonaro's presidential bid [1]. The prime minister said the relationship between the two countries is important, highlighting the senator's role in fostering bilateral connections.
"You are a great supporter of the bonds of friendship between the two peoples," Netanyahu said [1].
The endorsement comes during a complex legal period for the Brazilian senator. Reports indicate that Flávio Bolsonaro has been detained since November 2025 [1]. Despite these legal challenges, the senator is moving forward with his bid for the presidency in 2026 [1].
Netanyahu's public backing is intended to bolster the candidate's image as a leader with strong international support. The move underscores a strategic effort to promote a political ideology in Brazil that aligns with the current Israeli administration's goals, focusing on shared security and diplomatic interests.
Flávio Bolsonaro's campaign is positioning itself as a return to the policies associated with his family's political legacy. The support from a foreign head of government provides the campaign with a layer of perceived legitimacy and global stature as the 2026 election cycle intensifies [1].
“"You are a great supporter of the bonds of friendship between the two peoples,"”
This endorsement signals a strategic alignment between the Israeli government and the Brazilian right wing. By backing Flávio Bolsonaro, Netanyahu is betting on a political shift in Brazil that would likely favor Israeli diplomatic and economic interests, despite the legal controversies surrounding the Senator's detention since late 2025.
