Las Vegas, Sep 06 (V7N) – Former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Israel's existence would be at risk if Democratic candidate Kamala Harris wins the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Trump made the controversial remarks during a speech to Republican Jewish voters at a gathering in Las Vegas on Thursday.

Speaking via satellite, Trump stated, "If Kamala Harris becomes president, Israel will cease to exist." He went on to pledge his ongoing commitment to Israel, saying, "I will work with you to ensure that the State of Israel remains with us for thousands of years." 

Trump expressed his frustration over his difficulty in gaining support from Jewish voters despite his administration’s Middle East policies, which he touted as highly pro-Israel. "I've done more for Israel in four years than any other president," he claimed. "Yet only 25-26 percent of Jews voted for me. This year I hope to get 50 percent of their votes."

Trump also criticised those who supported Harris, adding, "I don't understand how anybody can support them (the Democrats), and if you're Jewish, you're screwed and need treatment. They have treated you very badly."

His comments come as recent surveys show him lagging in support from Jewish voters, with only 24 percent backing him in a June poll.

Trump's remarks have drawn criticism for their divisive tone and his increasingly desperate attempts to win over Jewish voters ahead of the 2024 election.