Trump Allies Express Disappointment With Netanyahu, Growing Impatience
The fourth annual MEAD conference, a forum for discussing security cooperation, convened in Washington during a sensitive period marked by uncertainty over the conflict with Iran, ongoing regional threats, and upcoming elections in both Israel and the US. The conference saw its largest-ever attendance, with representatives from 24 countries, including the US, Israel, and several Middle Eastern nations, some of which do not have diplomatic ties with Israel. The conference operates under Chatham House rules, allowing for candid discussions.
Sources close to former President Donald Trump expressed significant disappointment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating he has lost credibility on issues concerning Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. These sources indicated growing impatience with Netanyahu behind the scenes, noting the US administration's lack of public condemnation of British sanctions against Israel as an example. They also voiced anger over Netanyahu's alleged attempts to undermine Trump's 20-point plan for ending the Gaza war, which was developed in coordination with Netanyahu. Regarding potential clemency for Netanyahu, these sources stated it was a personal expression of Trump's solidarity with what he perceives as a "persecution" of his counterpart, with no demands for reciprocation.
Discussions also covered the situation in Gaza, with reports of improved humanitarian aid delivery and a sharp decrease in casualties. However, criticism was leveled against Israel for allegedly obstructing the entry of an international force, a Palestinian technocratic committee, and Palestinian police trainees. The conference also addressed Iran's weakening economic and political standing, with estimates suggesting widespread public opposition to the regime. Concerns were raised about Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei surrounding himself with hardliners. The possibility of a strong response targeting Iran's oil infrastructure if it attacks Israel was also discussed.
In other regional matters, Hezbollah was assessed as significantly weakened, though the Lebanese government remains too fragile to confront it directly. Syria's situation was deemed improving, with some suggesting a cautious approach towards President Bashar al-Assad. Gulf states expressed shared concern over Iran and strong criticism of the Muslim Brotherhood. The expansion of the Abraham Accords faced skepticism regarding Saudi normalization, though bilateral relations were described as stronger than publicly perceived. The unprecedented level of military and intelligence cooperation between Israel and the US was highlighted. Domestically, Israel was seen as needing a broad government to address the haredi draft law and judicial overhaul, described as "time bombs."
