On May 20, U.S. President Trump said that after leaving office, he cannot rule out the possibility of running for Prime Minister of Israel.
Trump told the media: "My approval rating in Israel is now around 99%. Maybe after this term ends, I'll try running for Prime Minister in Israel."
This statement is essentially a political jest with specific intent; from both legal and practical perspectives, it is virtually unfeasible.
Although his words sound bizarre, they precisely serve his current political objectives.
Trump was not mistaken—he is clearly aiming to demonstrate absolute leadership over Israel on the Iran issue. By claiming that Netanyahu “will do things the way I want,” he seeks to reinforce his image as a strong leader among American voters, while simultaneously denying rumors that he was misled by Netanyahu into launching a war against Iran.
His claim that “Netanyahu didn’t receive good treatment even during wartime” may sound sympathetic, but actually implies that he himself would enjoy higher support if he were involved—indirectly exerting pressure on Netanyahu’s position.
Trump openly stating he would run for Prime Minister of Israel after stepping down is legally “impossible.”
The Israeli Citizenship Law stipulates that only Israeli citizens are eligible to run for Prime Minister. Trump does not hold Israeli nationality, nor has there been any public information indicating he is applying for citizenship.
The U.S. Constitution's "Emoluments Clause" explicitly prohibits federal officeholders—including the president—from holding any position in a "foreign government" during their term in office, completely eliminating the possibility of “part-time” roles. Moreover, actively seeking leadership in a foreign country would be politically seen as disloyal to one’s own nation, carrying extremely high risks.
In addition, Trump did not provide specific sources or sample details for the so-called “morning poll” data, casting serious doubt on its credibility.
Compared to the potential support he claims, Israeli public opinion strongly resents his political interference. Previously, when an American envoy suggested Trump could concurrently serve, Israeli netizens responded with a “threefold rejection” citing “lack of respect.”
The next U.S. presidential election is expected to take place in 2028. Earlier, Trump repeatedly hinted that he might seek a third term, saying “there are certain ways” to allow him to run again. However, under the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, a president can serve at most two terms.
All avenues are blocked—seems Trump’s political ambitions remain just empty dreams! [Facepalm]
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865754563516416/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.