Israel: Politics

US

Countries criticize US and Israeli strikes on Iran

Several countries have publicly condemned recent military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran. They argue the attacks violate international law and are happening while diplomatic talks are ongoing. China called the strikes 'shocking' and 'unacceptable,' while also backing Iran's right to self-defense. Officials from Italy, Egypt, Turkey, and Canada also denounced the action, with Canada's Prime Minister saying the country's supportive position was taken 'with regret.'

IR

International criticism of Netanyahu grows over prisoner deals and policies

Several countries and officials have publicly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. An Egyptian ambassador said delays in prisoner exchange deals have increased Israel's international isolation, Turkey commented on his policies, and Iran's government called him a 'criminal and child-killer' after Israel denied a report about his death. Ukraine responded to an Iranian leader's statement calling Netanyahu a 'legitimate target' by labeling him a 'serial killer,' and Netanyahu requested a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Separately, President Donald Trump mentioned a specific prohibition involving Netanyahu.

IR

Trump's support for Netanyahu carries risks for both leaders

President Donald Trump has expressed support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies, which aligns with Netanyahu's wishes. However, this political backing is seen as carrying potential risks for both men, given the complex situation in the region. Separately, China's foreign minister was asked about how potential U.S.-Israel military strikes against Iran might affect a possible future visit by Trump to China. The minister gave a response, but the headlines did not detail its content.

IR

Regional countries condemn Israeli military actions and warn of escalation

Several countries in the Middle East and beyond have publicly criticized recent Israeli military actions. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt condemned strikes on targets in Syria, with Qatar calling an attack on Iranian gas tanks a 'dangerous, irresponsible step'. Turkey's foreign minister, Fidan, stated Israel is the primary driver of a war dragging the region into crisis. China said it was 'shocked' by reported remarks from Israel's defense chief about targeting Iranian officials. Russia summoned Israel's ambassador to formally protest a strike that killed Russian journalists. The criticism centers on a view that Israel's actions are increasing regional tensions and the risk of a wider conflict.

IR

Trump issues ultimatum to Iran over Strait of Hormuz blockade

Donald Trump gave Iran a 48-hour ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping. He threatened to strike Iranian power plants if the blockade continued and proposed a shared U.S.-Iran control arrangement for the strategic waterway. Iran's foreign minister stated the strait is open to ships from nations not supporting U.S.-Israeli aggression, while many ships reportedly fear passage. Over 20 countries offered to contribute to efforts to keep the strait open, and Russia and China voiced concern over the blockade and regional conflict escalation. Netanyahu also issued a warning to Iran.

US

Trump says Iran war is nearly over, but Netanyahu suggests no timeline

Donald Trump said the U.S. war with Iran is 'pretty much' complete and that it will end 'soon.' He said the final decision on ending the conflict would be a 'mutual' one made with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu, however, gave a different account, saying there is no set timeline to end the war. He also commented on the situation in Iran, saying he doesn't know if the Iranian people will oust their government, adding, 'You can lead someone to water, you can't make them drink.'

US

Trump and Netanyahu have different approaches on Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will act to protect its own interests regarding Iran, even as the United States under President Donald Trump pursues a different path. Netanyahu has called for international involvement in any potential conflict and has maintained pressure on Iran. Trump, however, has reportedly rebuffed suggestions from Netanyahu for more aggressive action, including regime change. Instead, Trump has announced a temporary halt on planned military strikes against Iran and has indicated he sees an opening for a potential deal with the country.

IR

Trump says he is talking with Iran to end the war

Donald Trump says the United States has held 'very good talks' with Iran, aimed at reaching a deal to end the war and achieve 'long-term, guaranteed peace for Israel.' He described Iran as 'desperate' for a deal, though Iranian officials have denied that talks are happening. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Trump is seeking a deal with Iran to end the war. However, there is reported concern in Israel that Trump might agree to a premature ceasefire that doesn't fully address Israel's security goals. Netanyahu, without directly referencing Trump's comments, stated that Iran is 'down, we are up.'

US

Trump says he might have forced Israel's hand on Iran strikes

Donald Trump said he 'might have forced Israel’s hand' regarding military action against Iran. He also stated that 'everything's been knocked out' in Iran following strikes and denied that Israel pushed the U.S. into the conflict. Meanwhile, some Democrats and America First Republicans have blamed Israel for pushing Trump into a war with Iran. Trump administration officials told lawmakers that Israel was 'determined to act with or without us' before the major strikes occurred.

US

Israeli officials praise cooperation with Trump administration

Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Israel Katz and an adviser to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have publicly praised the close cooperation between the Netanyahu government and the Trump administration. Katz called it 'changing regional and global history,' while the adviser referred to Trump and Netanyahu as the 'greatest tag team in history.' Separately, a report indicates Netanyahu raised concerns with the White House about possible U.S. contacts with Iran. Another article presents a historical critique of Netanyahu's approach to diplomacy over decades.

US

Trump says US held talks with Iran, which denies the claim

Donald Trump said the United States has held talks with Iran and that there were 'major points of agreement' and 'productive conversations' aimed at ending the war. He stated the talks were progressing. Iran, including its foreign ministry and the Revolutionary Guard, has repeatedly and firmly denied that any such talks have taken place. Iranian officials have dismissed Trump's claims as a 'bluff' and have criticized his negotiating team. The situation has created a stark contradiction, with Trump asserting progress on diplomacy and Iran completely rejecting the premise that discussions are happening. This has led to widespread media skepticism about the truth of the claims.

IR

Iran names supreme leader's son as new leader

Iran's state media confirmed that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been named as the country's new supreme leader. The selection was made by the Assembly of Experts, a clerical body. Following the announcement, the United States and Israel stated they would continue to pursue the new leader. Mojtaba Khamenei is described in reports as a hardline figure who now faces international pressure and domestic anger.

IR

Iranian officials vow not to surrender and threaten retaliation against US and Israel

Iranian President Pezeshkian and other officials stated that Iran will not surrender to the United States and Israel. They warned of retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli interests globally, including within the continental US, while also stating that Iran only targets US and Israeli assets. One official, Larijani, accused the US and Israel of seeking Iran's disintegration.

IR

Israel's approach to Iran faces challenges as U.S. talks continue

Israel's strategy toward Iran, often associated with Prime Minister Netanyahu, is being tested as the United States engages in talks with Iran. Israeli political rivals are taking hardline positions on Iran, while differences in priorities between the U.S. and Israel are becoming apparent. The ongoing situation is creating political and economic pressures for both Israel and the United States.

JO/LB/SY

Israel faces international pressure over military actions in Lebanon

Israel is conducting a ground operation in southern Lebanon, which it says is necessary to ensure the safety of its own citizens before displaced Lebanese can return home. The Israeli foreign minister has denied reports of talks with Lebanon and of shortages in missile defense interceptors. Multiple European countries, including Germany, have called the operation a mistake and urged Israel to cease its attacks. France's foreign minister is traveling to the region in an effort to reduce tensions, while Egypt has also condemned the incursion. Lebanon has reportedly offered direct talks, but Israeli officials have not engaged.

GR/IT/PT+3

Spain permanently withdraws its ambassador to Israel

Spain has decided to permanently withdraw its ambassador from Israel. This action is described as a downgrading of diplomatic ties between the two countries. The move comes amid a deepening rift in the relationship. Multiple headlines describe this as a permanent withdrawal, not a temporary recall.

IL

Netanyahu faces internal criticism and political pressure amid ongoing wars

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is dealing with internal government challenges and public uncertainty. His most-trusted aides have returned to work, providing some relief, while his spokesperson resigned after leaked audio revealed scathing criticism. Netanyahu has made promises of 'historic days' for the nation, but many Israelis are uncertain about this. The political opposition is rallying around his wars without hesitation, even as some critics argue his government prioritizes its own survival over the country's interests.

IL

Israeli political debate over holding early elections in July

There is a political debate in Israel about whether to hold early elections in July. Some members of Netanyahu's Likud party have suggested moving the vote to that date, arguing their political bloc could benefit from the current security situation involving Iran. Other reports indicate Netanyahu himself is trying to avoid a snap election. Polls show his personal approval has increased recently, but this has not translated into enough support for his coalition to win a majority in parliament.

IL

Israel passes law allowing death penalty for Palestinians convicted of lethal attacks

Israel's parliament, the Knesset, has approved a new law that makes the death penalty the default sentence for Palestinians convicted of carrying out lethal attacks that result in Israeli deaths. The law specifically applies to individuals convicted of murder with a nationalist motive. This move has drawn sharp criticism from various groups, who argue the law is discriminatory because it applies only to Palestinians and not to Israeli citizens. The legislation passed its first reading in the Knesset.

IN

Indian Prime Minister Modi speaks with Israeli leader Netanyahu amid tensions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Modi emphasized the safety of civilians as a priority and called for a cessation of hostilities, while Netanyahu thanked Modi for his support. Modi's contact with Netanyahu and a previous visit to Israel have drawn criticism from some Indian opposition figures and commentators. They argue the government's stance is not neutral in the Iran-Israel conflict.

JO/LB/SY

Israel and Lebanon expected to hold direct talks soon

Israel and Lebanon are expected to hold direct talks in the coming days, according to a report from the Israeli newspaper Haaretz. The report indicates the two countries, which have a history of conflict and do not have formal diplomatic relations, are preparing for this diplomatic engagement. No specific agenda or location for the talks was detailed in the report. The development suggests a potential diplomatic channel is being opened between the neighboring states.

IL

UN Security Council demands Iran stop attacks on Gulf states

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution demanding that Iran halt its attacks on neighboring Gulf states. The resolution did not mention the United States or Israel. Separately, the UN issued a flash appeal for millions of dollars in humanitarian aid for Lebanon, where it warns over 816,000 people have been displaced and the crisis is widening.