Netanyahu turns to US right wing to pressure Trump on Iran deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly trying to influence a possible US-Iran agreement through pro-Israel media figures and allied Republican senators, according to a report shared during rising tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv.

Citing an Israeli source, CNN reported that Netanyahu is working to shape the outcome of the negotiations by using right-wing media voices and political allies in the United States.

“Netanyahu is aiming to influence the final Iran deal … using right-wing media figures and friendly senators to exert pressure on … Trump,” the source said.

The effort comes as the White House continues diplomatic steps with Tehran after a US-Iran memorandum of understanding was signed to help end months of conflict. However, Netanyahu reportedly believes a final agreement may not be reached.

Since the deal was signed, Netanyahu has allegedly relied on conservative commentators such as Fox News host Mark Levin, who has strongly criticized the agreement. Levin called parts of the deal “doesn’t even make any sense” and also labeled some provisions “an outrage.”

Opposition has also come from Israeli political leaders. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich described the deal as a “bad deal,” while Netanyahu and other officials have continued to warn about possible military responses against Iran.

Israeli media reports also suggest that US officials did not share the full text of the memorandum with Israeli authorities. At the same time, some reports indicate growing mistrust between US President Donald Trump and Netanyahu, with Trump reportedly double-checking claims made during their conversations.

The memorandum, reached with regional mediation including Pakistan, sets a 60-day framework for further negotiations. It includes proposals for ending hostilities, easing sanctions on Iran, reopening trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz, and supporting economic reconstruction.

Despite the ceasefire framework, reports say Israeli military actions in Lebanon have continued, raising doubts about the stability of the agreement.

Tensions also became visible after US Vice President JD Vance criticized Israeli officials for opposing the deal. According to Israeli media, his remarks caused concern in political circles in Israel.

Vance warned Israeli leaders against publicly attacking the agreement and stressed the importance of the US-Israel relationship. He also pointed out that a large share of Israel’s defense support comes from the United States.

He said, “If I was in the cabinet of the Israeli government, I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world.”

He also added that, “The Israelis have to respect this peace process,” and said Trump expects all sides to support the ceasefire framework.

US President Donald Trump also urged a full ceasefire, writing, “We expect a complete Ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Israel.”

While Netanyahu has tried to downplay differences publicly, reports suggest increasing frustration behind the scenes, highlighting growing pressure between the two close allies.