Former US President Donald Trump has launched a scathing and deeply personal attack on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alleging he was unprepared for the devastating October 7th Hamas assault despite advanced American intelligence.
In a sensational interview set to send shockwaves through international diplomacy, Trump claimed the Israeli leader "let us down" in the lead-up to the attacks that killed over 1,200 Israelis. The remarks represent the most severe public criticism yet from Trump towards his once-close ally.
'Not Fit to Be Prime Minister'
Trump did not mince his words, delivering a brutal assessment of Netanyahu's leadership capabilities. "He was not prepared. He was not prepared, and Israel was not prepared," Trump stated emphatically.
Perhaps the most damning indictment came when the former President was asked directly if Netanyahu was fit for office. His response was blunt and unequivocal: "Well, I will say not for this. He's not fit for this. For this thing, he's not fit."
The Intelligence Failure
Central to Trump's explosive claims is the assertion that US intelligence agencies had provided Israel with specific warnings about an imminent Hamas threat—warnings that he suggests were ignored or inadequately acted upon by the Israeli security apparatus.
This allegation, if substantiated, would point to one of the most significant intelligence failures in Israel's recent history and raises serious questions about the current government's competence in safeguarding national security.
A Friendship in Tatters
The interview lays bare the complete breakdown of what was once one of the world's most powerful political friendships. During Trump's presidency, the two leaders enjoyed a very public alliance, marked by landmark policies like moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.
However, Trump revealed his fury stems from Netanyahu's acknowledgement of Joe Biden's 2020 election victory. "I haven't spoken to him since," Trump confirmed, highlighting the personal nature of the falling out that now has profound geopolitical implications.
Political Repercussions
These comments come at an exceptionally delicate time for Netanyahu, who faces mounting domestic pressure over the government's handling of both the October 7th attacks and the ongoing military response in Gaza.
Criticism from a likely US presidential candidate and former ally provides potent ammunition to Netanyahu's political opponents in Israel and could influence international perception of his leadership during this prolonged conflict.
The White House and Israeli officials have yet to issue a formal response to these incendiary claims, which are certain to dominate diplomatic discussions in the coming days and potentially alter the dynamics of US-Israeli relations.
