Israel’s Political Class Reacts to U.S.-Iran Peace Process
The announcement of a peace process between the United States and Iran has stirred significant anger within Israel’s political circles. One commentator, in an especially heated moment, accused Jared Kushner, President Trump’s Jewish son-in-law, of abandoning his “true home.”
On Sunday, President Trump shared news of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran, which, once signed in Geneva on Friday, will mark the beginning of extensive negotiations. Notably, Israel was reportedly not involved in the drafting of this MOU.
Since that announcement, Trump has been outspoken against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, criticizing the Israeli occupation in southern Lebanon—a contentious subject that threatens the peace efforts. Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition have pledged to maintain a military presence in the region for an unspecified duration.
The revelation of the MOU, combined with Trump’s sharp critiques of the G7, sparked outrage among Israeli politicians. Right-wing commentators have blamed the U.S. president and his advisers, while opposition figures have aimed their discontent at Netanyahu. Facing re-election, Netanyahu’s party is expected to hold elections by the end of October.
A Channel 14 News journalist close to Netanyahu, Ynon Magar, didn’t hold back, calling Trump a “loser,” and referring to Kushner and Steve Witkoff as “two little Jews who sold out their Israeli brothers.” Vice President J.D. Vance was also labeled a “scumbag” during the discussion.
Kushner works within the administration’s Peace Committee, tasked with high-level negotiations in the Middle East and Europe, while Witkoff serves as the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East.
Another Channel 14 commentator, Simon Riklin, characterized the U.S. as a “traitor” in light of the situation.
In a particularly inflammatory remark, Channel 14 anchor Tal Meir accused Kushner and Witkoff of betraying Israel “in a moment of truth.” She expressed disbelief that they would turn their backs on their heritage in such a crucial time.
The criticism extended beyond the Trump administration. Netanyahu himself faced strong condemnation from political rivals, including former Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Barak stated that Israel’s current predicament stems from Netanyahu’s “arrogance and blindness,” asserting that Iran is now more powerful while Israel’s position has weakened—a consequence he places squarely on Netanyahu’s shoulders.
Yair Lapid, a contender against Netanyahu in the upcoming elections, labeled the peace deal as “one of the most shocking failures” in Israel’s security policy, laying the blame entirely at Netanyahu’s feet. He insisted that this situation can, and should, be remedied and emphasized that it is now beyond Netanyahu’s capabilities to do so.
In light of the growing criticism, the Likud party, led by Netanyahu, has reportedly stopped an election advertisement that previously highlighted the prime minister’s strong ties with the U.S. and Trump.
