Sharp disagreements erupted during a restricted cabinet meeting on Monday as senior Israeli officials debated how closely Jerusalem should coordinate with the Trump administration amid escalating tensions involving Iran and Hezbollah.
The discussion quickly evolved into a broader argument over Israel’s strategic independence, with some ministers urging a more confrontational posture toward Washington while others stressed the importance of maintaining close cooperation with President Donald Trump.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir emerged as one of the strongest advocates for a more assertive approach, arguing that Israel must not hesitate to challenge the White House when core security interests are at stake.
“We have to stand up for ourselves with Trump, to fight by our fingernails. We have to tell him that we have red lines.”
Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu responded with a pointed remark directed at Ben-Gvir, suggesting that political considerations were influencing his position.
“I get it. There are elections in three months.”
Ben-Gvir immediately rejected the suggestion, insisting that his comments reflected a professional assessment of the situation rather than campaign politics.
The exchange prompted Shas chairman Aryeh Deri to enter the debate, criticizing Ben-Gvir’s approach and arguing that government policy must be guided by responsibility rather than rhetoric.
“If you thought that your position would be accepted, you would have expressed it. We make decisions responsibly.”
At the same meeting, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich advocated a significantly tougher military response against Hezbollah, arguing that Israel should seek to decisively separate the Lebanese and Iranian fronts through overwhelming force.
“We need to strike the Dahieh hard. That is what will cause Hezbollah to beg us to stop.”
As the discussion continued, Netanyahu sought to explain why he believes Israel should avoid a public confrontation with Trump and instead preserve the strong relationship that currently exists between the two governments.
The prime minister reportedly reviewed a series of American economic and military measures directed at Iran, emphasizing that Washington remains firmly aligned with Israel’s broader strategic goals.
“We are on the same page as Trump. He is not releasing the frozen assets; he’s determined to receive the nuclear dust and continues the blockade. Why should we fight him?”
{Matzav.com}