Eisenkot Slams Netanyahu Over Trump's Aid Cut Announcement

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the "Yashar!" movement, sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday for his silence following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that direct security aid to Israel would cease. Eisenkot called on Netanyahu to address the public about the American decision, emphasizing the critical role of U.S.-Israel relations in national security.

Eisenkot stated that the Israeli defense establishment and citizens learned about this significant shift in the strategic relationship through the media, which he described as a "real danger" stemming from Netanyahu's conduct. He asserted that Netanyahu can no longer be trusted and must be replaced, accusing the prime minister of failing to be truthful with the Israeli public and demanding immediate answers.

Trump announced that Israel and the U.S. had reached an agreement to end direct military aid. In an interview with Fox News, Trump described the relationship as "great" but stated, "We made a deal with the Israelis, we're not going to pay them anymore." He explained that he and Netanyahu had agreed months ago to stop the payments, as Israel has become very successful and no longer needs the aid. Trump added that the U.S. would still help Israel if needed, as they are excellent allies.