Former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett launched a direct attack on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, arguing that the government's conduct has seriously damaged Israel's international standing.
Bennett singled out National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, whose statements and political positions he described as particularly harmful. He said Netanyahu understood the damage being caused but was unable to confront Ben-Gvir because his coalition depended on him.
The former premier also linked the government's rhetoric to Israel's relationship with the United States. In his view, the current political conduct has weakened Israel's position in Washington and reduced US President Donald Trump's ability to assist the country.
Bennett said Israel's international situation had become exceptionally poor because of both the omissions and the public statements of government ministers. His criticism placed responsibility not only on individual ministers, but also on Netanyahu's failure to impose political discipline.
The remarks came as a new memorandum between the United States and Iran introduced additional pressure on Israel. One of its provisions calls for an end to Israeli military operations in Lebanon, while Washington is also seeking a durable ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
Netanyahu has sought to distance himself from that commitment, arguing that he must give priority to Israel's national interests. Ben-Gvir, meanwhile, called for intensified attacks on Lebanon after the deaths of four Israeli soldiers in fighting.
Bennett's intervention highlights a widening internal dispute over the direction of Israeli policy. The argument now extends beyond military strategy to the country's diplomatic credibility and its ability to retain support from its closest international partners.