The Israeli prime minister, who faces an autumn election he is predicted to lose, may become more inclined to challenge the US president as his public approval ratings decline.
Benjamin Netanyahu wagered that his joint military campaign with Donald Trump would bring down Iran’s clerical leadership and strengthen his own position ahead of the domestic vote, positioning himself as the mastermind of a US-Israeli partnership set to transform the Middle East.
Now, however, Israel’s longest-serving premier is heading toward a clash with Trump as the US president seeks to withdraw from the conflict, with neither leader having achieved their objectives and Israeli forces remaining engaged in Lebanon.
For the moment, Israeli officials have exercised public caution to avoid antagonizing their key ally, who is known for being sensitive to criticism.
Yet in private discussions, the discontent is evident. The preliminary agreement is “disastrous for Israel,” one senior Israeli official said, offering a candid assessment on condition of anonymity. “And no one in Israel’s leadership sees it differently, from the prime minister down to the chief of staff.”
Washington asserts that over the next 60 days, while a ceasefire is in effect, it will negotiate a full arrangement addressing US and Israeli concerns, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
But Israeli officials indicated they believe the negotiation period under the agreement will likely be prolonged, restricting Israel’s ability to conduct military operations while its worries remain unaddressed.