WASHINGTON — Former U.S. President Donald Trump described Israeli President Isaac Herzog as “weak” and ineffective in a recent interview with an Israeli television channel, while praising Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as crucial to Israel’s existence.
Read More: Trump urges Israeli president to consider pardoning Netanyahu
Trump criticized Herzog’s use of presidential pardon powers, saying the Israeli leader was placing responsibility unfairly on Netanyahu. “Herzog is weak and ineffective. He is using the pardon authority to hang issues on Netanyahu’s head,” Trump said.
President Trump slams Israeli President Herzog in exclusive Channel 14 interview with Libby Alon, Chief U.S. Correspondent:@POTUS told @libby_alon, “Your president is a weak man. The president of Israel is a weak and ineffective man who’s using the pardon and hanging it over… pic.twitter.com/WR3gXPUNTx
— C14 News Israel | EN (@c14israel) March 15, 2026
In contrast, Trump expressed strong support for Netanyahu, stating, “If Netanyahu had not been Prime Minister, Israel might not even exist today. I am fully with Netanyahu.” When asked whether any other leader could have achieved the successes that he and Netanyahu accomplished together, Trump replied, “I don’t think so.”
The interview also touched on the ongoing conflict involving Iran and regional security concerns. Trump suggested that other countries could play a role in keeping the strategic Strait of Hormuz open, a vital passage for global oil supplies. He noted that while these nations rely on the strait for energy, the U.S. does not, and therefore they should contribute to maintaining safe passage.
Trump’s comments come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with concerns over potential disruptions to global oil markets. His remarks highlight his continued vocal involvement in international politics, particularly regarding Israel and regional security issues.
Read More: Trump urges Israeli President to pardon Netanyahu
Analysts suggest that Trump’s statements reflect a longstanding alliance with Netanyahu and a critical view of other Israeli officials. While Herzog holds primarily ceremonial powers as president, the criticism underscores the former U.S. president’s tendency to voice strong opinions on international leaders’ roles and effectiveness.
Observers note that these remarks could influence public perception of Israel’s leadership and the broader geopolitical discourse surrounding the Middle East.