WASHINGTON, DC: Recent social media discussions, amplified on platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram, have put forth a claim that President Donald Trump is orchestrating a regime change in Israel. This speculation emerged following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, an event that reportedly created friction with Benjamin Netanyahu.
Claim: Donald Trump planning a regime change in Israel
The viral assertion, widely shared online, suggests that Trump is actively working to replace the current leadership in Israel. Some posts cite an Israeli newspaper report, alleging that the Trump administration is subtly maneuvering to sideline Benjamin Netanyahu. These claims have elicited varied responses online, with some users expressing support for the purported action, while others have voiced criticisms regarding US involvement in other international matters and Trump’s policies concerning Cuba. A segment of social media users has also expressed skepticism, calling for verification of the information.
Fact Check: The claim is rated as unconfirmed
An Israeli outlet, Channel 12, reported that the Trump administration is reportedly establishing informal communication channels with figures within Israel’s opposition, including potential successors to Netanyahu in future elections, such as former prime minister Naftali Bennett and former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot.
However, this report did not present any concrete evidence to substantiate the idea of a regime change. Furthermore, the act of establishing communication channels with political opposition or potential future leaders is generally considered standard diplomatic outreach rather than an attempt to force a change in government. Consequently, the claim remains unconfirmed.
Donald Trump’s comments on Netanyahu
The emergence of this claim coincides with remarks made by Donald Trump stating that he must help keep Benjamin Netanyahu "a little bit sane." Trump’s comments came amid public assertions of his influence over Israel’s actions, despite reported strains related to his diplomatic efforts concerning Iran. These remarks highlighted visible tensions between the two allies, particularly as Trump defended a controversial Iran agreement. Trump emphasized his pivotal role in Israel’s security, stating, "If it weren’t for Donald Trump — and Bibi Netanyahu worked well with me, but he will tell you, we’re the ones with the guns, we’re the ones with the whole deal, we’re the ones with the B-2 bombers, etc.," and insisted, "If it weren’t for Donald Trump, Israel would have been eviscerated."