Trump's first term was remarkable for Israel from the start.
Donald Trump, in his first visit anywhere overseas as president, spent two days in Israel in May 2017 stood with his head bowed at the Western Wall and highlighted what he said was his “privilege” to address the people of Israel in the ancient city of Jerusalem.
“I make this promise to you,” he declared in the final public event of his visit, at the Israel Museum, “my administration will always stand with Israel.”
“Iran’s leaders routinely call for Israel’s destruction,” Trump noted bitterly in that same speech, and then departed from the prepared text on the teleprompters to vow: “Not with Donald J Trump, believe me!”
His audience, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stood and cheered. “Thank you,” he said three times, as the applause went on and on. And when it had finally faded, he waved out a hand and said, with a smile, “I like you too.” The room filled with a warm, appreciative rumble of laughter.
What is Trump up to this time?
All uncoordinated with Netanyahu — without evident influence: 1. Direct talks with Hamas, 2. confused dealings with Iran, 3. an unworkable vision for Gaza 4. and now an agreement with the Houthis without Israel
Israel can only hope there is much yet to be revealed.
