On Monday, Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid expressed concern over the emerging deal between the U.S. and Iran, stating it does not meet Israel’s objectives for the ongoing conflict. Lapid accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of failing to secure a stronger agreement that addresses Israel’s goals.
Lapid, campaigning against Netanyahu in upcoming elections, described the deal details as “disturbing.” He commented, “The deal is detrimental to Israel, the region, and the citizens of Iran.”
The conflict began on February 28 with intentions to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile program, halt its support for regional militant groups, and prevent Iran from pursuing nuclear weapons. Both Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump aimed to establish conditions to potentially destabilize Iran’s government.
The proposed deal reportedly involves Iran renouncing its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, in return for lifting the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and sanctions. The nuclear program specifics would then be negotiated over a 60-day period. Uncertainty remains over whether the deal will address Iran’s missile program or support for militant groups.
Lapid appreciated Trump for commencing the conflict with Israel, but criticized Netanyahu for allowing U.S. negotiations with minimal coordination. “The Israeli government’s influence in Washington is at an all-time low,” Lapid stated, referencing Trump’s comment that “Netanyahu will do whatever I want him to do.”
An official familiar with Netanyahu’s conversations with Trump stressed Israel’s stance on maintaining “freedom of action” against threats. “Israel is a sovereign state, not a vassal or protectorate,” Lapid affirmed.
Lapid, leading the centrist “Yesh Atid” party, briefly served as prime minister under a rotation agreement with Naftali Bennett in 2022. Their coalition ended Netanyahu’s 12-year rule. They have since unified their parties, led by Bennett, aiming to unseat Netanyahu in elections by October.
Currently serving as opposition leader since Netanyahu’s return to power, Lapid seeks to unify opposition factions against Netanyahu. Although supportive of Palestinian independence, Lapid acknowledged that the issue won’t be prioritized due to recent conflicts, noting, “There will be no two-state solution in the coming years.” He emphasized opposition to unilateral moves hindering future Palestinian statehood, with assurances from Bennett that annexing occupied territories is not on the agenda.
Lapid ruled out collaborating with Arab parties for a coalition to oust Netanyahu. Polls suggest a governing majority without Arab support may be challenging, unlike their previous government with Mansour Abbas’s Arab faction. Despite past cooperation, Lapid stated, “Israel is in a different place after nearly three years of wars,” asserting no coalition with Abbas’ party in the next elections.