President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will follow his wishes regarding the U.S. approach toward Iran [1].
The remarks signal a high level of perceived leverage over the Israeli government during a period of heightened regional tension. By asserting direct influence over Netanyahu, Trump is framing the U.S. as the primary architect of policy concerning Iranian aggression.
Speaking during a press briefing in Connecticut on May 20, 2026 [2], Trump addressed the possibility of a potential war on Iran. He emphasized his relationship with the Israeli leader to suggest a unified front under U.S. direction. "Netanyahu will do what I want him to do on Iran," Trump said [1].
During the exchange, Trump transitioned from policy discussions to a series of political jokes regarding his own standing in Israel. He suggested that he possesses significant popularity within the country, a claim he used to justify a hypothetical bid for office. "I could run for prime minister of Israel," Trump said [3].
To support this notion, Trump cited a specific level of popularity among the Israeli public. He said he has about 99% support in Israel [4].
These comments come as the U.S. continues to navigate the complex security dynamics of the Middle East. The assertion that a foreign leader will act according to the president's specific wishes underscores a transactional approach to diplomacy. While the remarks about running for office in Israel were framed as a joke, they highlight the president's focus on personal loyalty, and public polling as measures of political power [3].
“"Netanyahu will do what I want him to do on Iran."”
Trump's statements reflect a strategy of projecting absolute control over key allies to deter adversaries like Iran. By claiming nearly total support in Israel and asserting dominance over Prime Minister Netanyahu, the president is attempting to present a monolithic U.S.-Israeli alliance that operates strictly on his terms, regardless of traditional diplomatic protocols.
