Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu meets with Trump’s supporters before U.S. Jews, signalling shifting diplomatic priorities

As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Washington for what is arguably one of the most pivotal diplomatic visits of his career, many were surprised by his choice of meeting partners before heading to the Oval Office. Rather than engaging with influential Jewish groups in the U.S., Netanyahu instead sought out support from some of President Trump’s most loyal constituencies, including prominent Evangelicals and tech mogul Elon Musk.

This move has raised eyebrows, especially considering the longstanding relationship between Israel and the American Jewish community, a demographic that has historically played a significant role in U.S. politics. Netanyahu’s decision to meet with these groups, whose backing of Trump remains steadfast despite his controversies, is seen as a strategic shift. Rather than courting the Jewish American constituency, which has repeatedly shown its disapproval of Trump in electoral polls, Netanyahu appeared to favour those who are more aligned with the current administration’s policies.

The backdrop to this shift is Trump’s unwavering support for Netanyahu’s government, which has bolstered Netanyahu’s confidence on the global stage. By aligning himself with Trump’s base—Evangelicals and right-leaning figures like Musk—Netanyahu is likely seeking to cement diplomatic support for Israel, especially as he heads into crucial talks with the U.S. President. While Jewish Americans remain an important part of the U.S. political landscape, their support for Trump has dwindled, making them a less reliable source of political backing for Netanyahu’s visit.

This choice has sparked mixed reactions. Some analysts argue that Netanyahu’s move reflects the changing nature of international politics, where traditional alliances are being reevaluated in light of shifting political realities. Others see it as a reflection of Netanyahu’s focus on maintaining strong ties with the Trump administration, which has been a staunch ally of Israel in recent years, particularly in relation to issues like Jerusalem’s status and support for the Israeli government’s policies in the West Bank.

For Netanyahu, who faces intense pressure back home, this visit to Washington is seen as an opportunity to solidify Israel’s relationship with the U.S. at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East. The strategic importance of aligning with Evangelicals and figures like Musk cannot be understated, as these groups hold significant sway in U.S. politics and are among the most vocal supporters of Israel.

While the Israeli Prime Minister’s decisions may have been pragmatic, they also signal a departure from traditional diplomatic outreach, raising questions about the future of Israel’s relationships with American Jewish communities and their influence on U.S. foreign policy