Trump calls Netanyahu 'his own worst enemy' as Israeli elections approach

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "his own worst enemy," according to information obtained about the U.S. leader's private remarks. The comments come ahead of Israel's Oct. 27 elections, during which Trump has not yet issued a public endorsement of Netanyahu. Trump has reportedly increased his distance from the Israeli leader over disagreements on policy toward Iran, Lebanon and Gaza. The latest point of tension, according to the same information, was Netanyahu's public rejection of Trump's "Board of Peace" plan aimed at disarming Hamas in Gaza. The White House said it viewed Netanyahu's statements as election tactics. In a phone call with Trump's special envoy Jared Kushner, Netanyahu pledged to give the plan a chance. The Israeli military has also returned to a withdrawal line known as the "yellow line" following a reduction in attacks. Netanyahu's political rivals — Gideon Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid — have reportedly sent messages through back channels urging Trump to remain neutral in the vote. No further details on the diplomatic exchanges were immediately available.