Trump Allies Express Frustration With Netanyahu, Cite Diminishing Credibility

The fourth annual MEAD conference in Washington, focused on security cooperation, convened during a period of significant regional uncertainty, including the ongoing conflict with Iran and upcoming elections in both Israel and the United States. The conference saw its largest attendance yet, with representatives from 24 countries, including Israel and several Middle Eastern nations without formal diplomatic ties, leveraging the event's Chatham House Rule for candid discussions.

Behind the scenes, sources close to former President Donald Trump voiced "great 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, noting the US administration's lack of public condemnation of British sanctions against Israel as evidence. They also expressed anger over Netanyahu's alleged attempts to undermine a 20-point peace plan for Gaza, developed in coordination with him. Trump's alleged personal sympathy for Netanyahu regarding his legal battles was cited as the reason for a potential pardon, not a quid pro quo.

Discussions also covered the situation in Gaza, with reports of improved humanitarian aid, reduced casualties, and growing opposition to Hamas. However, criticisms were leveled against Israel for allegedly obstructing the entry of an international stabilization force and a Palestinian technocratic committee. The conference also addressed Iran's weakening economic and political standing, with estimates suggesting widespread public opposition to the regime, though a collapse is not seen as imminent. Concerns were raised about hardliners surrounding Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Participants also discussed the fragile situation in Lebanon, noting Hezbollah's weakened state but the Lebanese government's inability to confront it directly. In Syria, a cautious optimism was expressed, with some seeing President Bashar al-Assad as a pragmatist, while others viewed him as a "terrorist in a suit." The Gulf states expressed shared concern over Iran and strong criticism of the Muslim Brotherhood, deeming it more dangerous than Iran due to the perceived possibility of dialogue with Tehran. The strategic importance of maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz was also a key topic.

Regarding Israeli-Saudi relations, while immediate normalization is doubted, ties were described as stronger than publicly perceived, with potential progress on expanding the Abraham Accords post-election. The unprecedented level of military and intelligence cooperation between Israel and the US was highlighted. Internally, Israeli discussions pointed to the need for a broad coalition government to address the Haredi draft law and judicial reform, seen as "time bombs." The absence of significant public pressure to withdraw from territories was noted as an opportunity for shaping new regional diplomacy.