Key facts
- Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir stated Israel is not bound by the preliminary US-Iran agreement.
- Analysts described the US-Iran deal as a "political and security catastrophe for the State of Israel."
- The agreement aims for a 60-day ceasefire, with sensitive issues like Iran's nuclear program deferred.
- Former intelligence officer Danny Citrinowicz believes the deal allows Iran to emerge stronger.
- Michael Horowitz noted Israel's concerns were ignored by President Trump in the negotiations.
Israeli analysts have characterized the preliminary US-Iran agreement, aimed at concluding the Middle East war, as a significant strategic setback for Israel and a sign of its diminishing influence in Washington. While the accord is set for finalization within 60 days, its initial framework has already caused concern in Israel, with analysts arguing it solidifies Iranian gains while leaving critical security issues unresolved.
Former intelligence officer Danny Citrinowicz described the deal as a "political and security catastrophe for the State of Israel," suggesting it makes future military action against Iran unlikely and allows Tehran to emerge stronger. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had hoped to campaign on victories against Iran and its proxies, now faces criticism for failing to achieve Israel's primary war objectives.
Sima Shine, an analyst at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies, noted that the agreement appears to prioritize Iranian interests, leaving crucial issues like Iran's nuclear program unresolved. President Donald Trump reportedly criticized Netanyahu for actions in Lebanon that jeopardized the agreement, asserting that Israel should be grateful for the deal. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has publicly stated that Israel is not bound by the accord.
Analysts also highlighted Israel's lack of direct involvement in the negotiations, noting that its influence in Washington seems to be eroding. Michael Horowitz, a security analyst, observed that Trump appears to have disregarded Israel's concerns. Michael Milshtein, an expert on Israeli military affairs, concluded that the agreement leaves Israel in a weaker position across all fronts.