Jerusalem:Â Israel’s prime minister on Wednesday steered clear of Donald Trump’s comments questioning the loyalty of American Jews who support the Democratic Party, in sharp contrast to the tide of condemnation from Jewish critics who accused him of trafficking in anti-Semitic stereotypes.
Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to keep quiet on the controversy reflected the importance of his close alliance with Trump – a relationship that has dented the bipartisan support Israel has traditionally enjoyed in Washington as well as Israel’s equally important ties with the American Jewish community.
With an eye on re-election, Trump has attempted to use his close ties with Netanyahu to win over Jewish voters, who overwhelmingly vote for Democrats.
Critics say it is part of a broader strategy that has also targeted minorities and immigrants with sometimes racist rhetoric in an attempt to shore up his base of white, working-class voters.