Netanyahu Faces Political Backlash Over Halting Beirut Strikes Under US Pressure

A decision by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt attacks on Beirut, following reported pressure from US President Donald Trump, has exposed a significant political rift within Israel’s government. Hardline National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir publicly urged Netanyahu to defy the US demand and intensify military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

In a social media post, Ben-Gvir reminded the prime minister of a past statement about saying ‘no’ to the US president when necessary, declaring now is the time to do so. He called for escalating military action to restore security in northern Israel. The decision has also drawn sharp criticism from other political figures, including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and former Army Chief Gadi Eisenkot, who accused the government of losing control over Israeli sovereignty and succumbing to foreign pressure.

This internal Israeli dispute unfolds against the backdrop of broader US-Iran negotiations aimed at de-escalating a wider conflict. Iran is reportedly reviewing a proposed agreement with the United States to end hostilities that have disrupted global energy markets by effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran is said to be seeking an end to hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, and relief from economic pressure.

Meanwhile, Iranian negotiators have issued a stark warning that Tehran will intervene directly in the conflict if Israel ignores ceasefire efforts and continues its aggression in Lebanon. This threat was compounded by another to expand its blockade to the Bab El Mandeb Strait if Israeli strikes on Beirut resume.