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Comment and Opinion

The Times of Israel: What does Donald’s triumph mean for Israel’s future? By James Sorene

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has never worked with a Republican president, so the future partnership with President-elect Donald Trump is unique. Hillary Clinton would have been professional and critical, but a known quantity. Trump will be dramatic and friendly, but very unpredictable – he will move fast and break things.

The Republicans control Congress so Trump has the power, but does he have the inclination? He has questioned alliances and treaties during the campaign and suggested he has no issue with Russian aggression.

US allies are apprehensive and a lot will now depend on whether Trump opts for experience or loyalty when appointing his top team.

The implications for Israel’s regional security are uncertain. An isolationist America will mean greater Russian influence and fewer troops, money and arms to help allies. This is good news for Iran, but bad news for Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, which were already feeling sidelined. Expect them to move quickly to bind themselves to the new administration.

Read the full article in the Times of Israel.