US Peace Deal with Iran Becomes Political Nightmare for Netanyahu

According to BBC analysis, a US-Iran peace agreement could turn into a political nightmare for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The deal undermines the cornerstones of his career and creates a new security dilemma. BBC notes that Netanyahu, once considered Washington's influential ally, is now sidelined. Moreover, a politician who placed Iran's defeat at the center of Israel's security policy now faces a more resilient Iranian regime.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid succinctly summarized Netanyahu's options on June 15: either direct and destructive confrontation with the country's most powerful ally, or submissively abandoning Israeli interests. Donald Trump's crude remark that Netanyahu was not thinking when he attacked Beirut has been enthusiastically adopted by his opponents and media, already focusing on upcoming elections.

Netanyahu also faces pressure from his own side. Far-right Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir wrote on social media that Trump's deal with Iran is not binding for Israelis, and Israel will not participate in an agreement that does not provide security. Likud MK Ariel Kallner told BBC that Israel will continue to defend itself but did not specify whether attacks on Lebanon would continue.

Former Mossad officer Sima Shine criticized the US for allowing Iran to dictate events in Lebanon, enabling continued support for Hezbollah and keeping the group a significant political force. She noted dissatisfaction among both Israeli security officials and politicians.

At a press conference on June 15, Netanyahu rejected criticism, stating he has devoted most of his life to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He emphasized he will do what is necessary and not limit himself, but acknowledged differences with Trump, especially regarding Israeli forces in Lebanon. Netanyahu insisted on maintaining operational freedom.

BBC points out that Netanyahu's aggressive security policy has led to occupation of vast territories in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, straining military resources and reservists. Repeated conflicts with Hezbollah and Iran have not eliminated enemies—Tehran now has even harder-line leaders who have gained full control over the Strait of Hormuz. It appears Israel's greatest enemy also controls its main ally.