'It's a big mistake': Israelis feel betrayed after US-Iran peace deal
Many Israelis view the US-brokered ceasefire between Iran and the US as a betrayal, fearing it leaves Israel isolated and endangers its security, while political fallout threatens Prime Minister Netanyahu ahead of elections.
Anger and betrayal in Rehovot
In the Israeli town of Rehovot, residents expressed anger over the ceasefire deal between Iran and the United States, describing it as a betrayal by President Trump. Avi Perez, 55, said: "We were betrayed by President Trump." Shaham Nowick, 35, noted that despite the deal, nothing had been resolved. Israeli commentators have condemned the deal as a surrender.
Security concerns
Many Israelis fear that Iran will rebuild its military strength and that the agreement will limit Israel's ability to counter Hezbollah. Udi Tenne, a political adviser, stated that Israelis view the war in Lebanon as just, and see Iran and Hezbollah as the same threat. In Metulla, near the Lebanese border, restaurateur Daniel Dorfmann called the deal a big mistake.
Netanyahu's political challenges
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism for failing to achieve war aims such as regime change in Iran and destroying its nuclear program. He has also been sidelined by Washington and dismissed as "a small power" by Trump. Netanyahu is on trial for corruption and faces a difficult election campaign. Public opinion polls show a divided electorate, with 43% of undecided voters still favoring a Netanyahu-led coalition.
Divisions and upcoming elections
The coming election in October is seen as a major turning point. Some Israelis feel more divided than ever, with issues like housing and inflation neglected. However, Prof. Tamar Hermann of the Israel Democracy Institute notes that most Jewish voters share common ground on security, welfare, and opposition to conscription exemptions for the orthodox. Dahlia Perez summed up the mood: "We understand now that we have no friends and we cannot trust anyone."
