'Israel is weaker': Israeli political class reacts angrily to the US-Iran peace deal

What Happened

On Sunday, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the United States and Iran had reached a peace agreement, mediated by Pakistan with support from Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The deal includes an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon. President Trump confirmed the deal as 'complete,' while Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said a final agreement is due within 60 days. Israeli officials across the political spectrum rejected the deal as non-binding. Israeli forces carried out attacks in southern Lebanon on Monday. Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly told Trump that Israel would not accept Iranian requirements in Lebanon. Defence Minister Katz stated that the Israeli army would remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza 'without any time limit.' Finance Minister Smotrich and National Security Minister Ben Gvir emphasized that Israel would continue military operations independently. Opposition figures criticized the government, with Yair Golan claiming 'Israel is weaker' and former PM Bennett attacking Netanyahu's handling of the wars.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The US-Iran peace deal, if implemented, could fundamentally alter regional dynamics by reducing tensions between the US and Iran, but Israel's outright rejection threatens to maintain a state of conflict, particularly with Hezbollah in Lebanon. The deal's provision for a ceasefire in Lebanon directly challenges Israel's ongoing military operations there, risking a rift between the US and Israel. Israeli officials' vows to act unilaterally against Iran raise the prospect of a broader war without US backing, while internal political reactions signal a crisis for Netanyahu's government over its security strategy.

Watch For

The formal signing of the deal on Friday in Switzerland. Continued Israeli attacks in Lebanon and potential escalation between Israel and Iran if Israel acts on threats to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. US pressure on Israel to adhere to the Lebanon ceasefire clause. Domestic Israeli political fallout, with opposition figures using the deal to criticize Netanyahu ahead of potential elections.