‘If Iran gets a bomb it will be Bibi’s’: Trump’s deal outline sparks alarm in Israel

Following a joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran in February, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing alarm and dismay over reported terms of a potential deal being negotiated by US President Donald Trump. Three months later, the Iranian regime remains in power, and the proposed agreement, which aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, is seen by many Israeli commentators as less restrictive than previous deals and potentially beneficial to Iran. Israel was reportedly excluded from negotiations and has not been updated on their progress. Critics argue that if Iran obtains a nuclear bomb, it will be a consequence of Netanyahu's strategy, and concerns about Iran's regional influence and missile arsenal are not being addressed. Despite initial support for the war, public backing for Netanyahu's government has declined.

US media reports suggest a potential deal with Iran could be finalized on Monday, involving a 60-day ceasefire extension and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This agreement, however, is not a final settlement and defers complex issues like sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear ambitions to later negotiations. Communication difficulties with Iran's supreme leader, reportedly injured in an earlier strike, have slowed talks. The reported deal has divided Republicans, with some criticizing it as too lenient. President Trump, however, stated he would not listen to critics and would make a "good and proper" deal, reiterating that Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons. The conflict began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to retaliatory attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which sent oil prices soaring.

Republican hawks, including Senators Ted Cruz and Lindsey Graham, are criticizing President Trump's reported plan for a peace deal with Iran, calling it a "disastrous mistake." The proposed agreement reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and lifting the US naval blockade on Iranian ports in exchange for Iran clearing mines and allowing ships passage. However, critics are concerned that the deal does not address Iran's nuclear ambitions, a stated "red line" for the administration. Trump has stated that US representatives are not being rushed and that talks are progressing constructively. Former officials like Mike Pompeo also voiced strong disapproval of the rumored concessions.