JERUSALEM (AP) — Israelis across the political spectrum reacted with anger Monday to news of an interim U.S.-Iran deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, branding it a disaster for Israel and directing their ire at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. As of Monday evening, Netanyahu had not issued a statement, but government officials, rivals, and commentators were quick to condemn the agreement, which they see as a strategic setback.
The deal, which could take weeks or months to fully restore oil flow, has deepened Netanyahu's isolation at home, in the region, and from the United States. Critics argue the prime minister misled President Donald Trump into the war with Iran, overpromising what could be achieved, and that Trump is now withdrawing before Israel is ready.
Former Prime Minister Ehud Barak said Netanyahu's hubris and manipulation backfired, leaving Iran stronger and Israel weaker. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called the deal "one of the most shocking failures in Israel's foreign and security policy," vowing to fix it after elections.
The agreement also complicates Israel's military campaign in Lebanon. Iran has insisted any deal include a cessation of Israeli hostilities against Hezbollah.
Trump, eager to end the conflict, grew angry over Israeli strikes in Beirut, warning they could jeopardize the pact. Defense Minister Israel Katz has vowed to keep troops in Lebanon, but analysts say Hezbollah now holds leverage.
Ultranationalist minister Itamar Ben-Gvir demanded no compromise short of dismantling Hezbollah.
On the Iran front, the deal ties Netanyahu's hands before meeting war goals. Launched on Feb.
28 to destroy Iran's nuclear ambitions, the campaign has left Tehran in a stronger position after withstanding a withering aerial assault. Iran's proxy network survives, and it still controls the Strait of Hormuz, choking global trade.
The deal may include phased sanctions relief and release of frozen Iranian assets, funneling billions to Tehran, according to regional officials.
Commentator Anna Barsky wrote that the war delayed Iran's nuclear program but did not change its objectives. Center-left leader Yair Golan accused Trump of throwing a lifeline to the "murderous regime in Tehran." The deal leaves Netanyahu politically exposed ahead of fall elections, with his base and opposition demanding action.