Israelis deserve answers on US-Iran deal, not a campaign speech - editorial

An editorial in the Jerusalem Post criticizes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent televised address concerning a burgeoning deal between the United States and Iran. The publication argues that the Israeli people are seeking straightforward information about the deal's potential impact on their security, rather than what it describes as a "superficial campaign speech."

“

The Israeli people are desperate to hear some straight talk about what the burgeoning deal between the US and Iran means for them.

The editorial points to recent significant conflicts with Iran, including a "12-day war" and a subsequent 40-day period of missile attacks, which resulted in loss of life, destroyed homes, and widespread anxiety. It questions whether the hardship endured by Israel has been "worth it," especially since Prime Minister Netanyahu indicated he did not yet know the specifics of the deal negotiated by US President Donald Trump.

“

Is the hardship Israel has faced worth it?

This perceived lack of detail stands in stark contrast to the "unprecedented partnership" previously displayed between Netanyahu and Trump during the conflict with Iran. The article references former Israeli ambassador Michael Oren, who noted the strong alliance and shared goals of confronting Iran's regime. However, it contrasts this with recent critical remarks attributed to Trump about Netanyahu.

“

Less than four months ago, American forces stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the IDF in the most dramatic display ever of the US-Israel alliance… Our leaders, too, appeared to be totally in lockstep in setting the war’s ultimate goals of overthrowing Iran’s jihadist regime, eliminating its nuclear and ballistic capabilities, and ending its support for terror. Netanyahu’s friendship with Trump seemed deep and unbreakable.

The editorial expresses concern that Israel was "kept out of the loop" during negotiations that directly affect its future and its ability to counter threats from Iran, including its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and support for proxy groups. It suggests that Netanyahu's address may have been an attempt at "damage control" rather than a substantive discussion of the deal's potentially "devastating details."

“

Trump has called Netanyahu “f****** crazy,” reckless, and lacking judgment.