Israeli opposition leader says Netanyahu must go after US-Iran peace deal
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Israeli opposition leader Yair Golan on Monday sharply criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the announcement of a US-Iran peace agreement, calling it a major strategic setback for Israel and demanding a change in leadership.
Golan, who leads the Democratic Party, said the agreement was reached without Israel's involvement and undermined military gains achieved by Israeli forces.
"A difficult morning for Israel. This morning, Israeli citizens are waking up to an agreement between the United States and Iran that was made over Israel's head," Golan wrote in a statement.
He accused Netanyahu of standing by while military achievements secured by Israeli forces were erased through diplomacy. Golan argued that the agreement would provide economic relief to Iran while leaving key security concerns unresolved. He claimed the deal would inject billions of dollars into Iran, leave its nuclear infrastructure intact, and fail to eliminate the ballistic missile threat posed by Tehran.
The opposition leader also launched a broader attack on Netanyahu's security record, accusing him of weakening Israel's alliances and pursuing failed policies over several years. "The one who promised 'total victory' ends his term with Israel's enemies stronger, Israel weaker, and the deterrence built with the blood of our fighters eroding before our eyes," Golan said.
He described replacing Netanyahu as "an existential security necessity" for Israel.
The criticism reflects growing political divisions in Israel over the newly announced agreement between Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also condemned the deal, stressing that Israel was not bound by its terms. "Trump's agreement does not bind us. Israel is not subject to the United States, and we are an independent and sovereign nation," Ben-Gvir said.
The US-Iran agreement is expected to serve as a framework for broader negotiations on sanctions relief, Iran's nuclear programme, and regional security issues.