Skip to main content

The Iranian gap between Obama, Bibi

The perception gap between President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the Iranian agreement extends beyond negotiation tactics, with Obama aspiring to rehabilitate relations with Iran.
RTR3FZYX.jpg

The US and Israeli governments were probably never as distanced from each other in regard to policy as they are now. The gap between them is not only about how to deal with the Iranian negotiations, but more profoundly as to the use of power versus diplomacy. A source from the Israeli prime minister's office spoke to Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's considerations when deciding to speak to Congress on March 3, despite US President Barack Obama's objection. According to the source, the prime minister never believed in the desirability of an agreement — he sees Iran as the ultimate evil, determined to destroy Israel with nuclear weapons.

Generally speaking, Netanyahu is not a great believer in international accords. This is particularly true when it comes to possible agreements with the Arab and Muslim worlds — agreements he sees as Munich appeasement agreements of sorts, i.e., failed attempts to appease the enemy. He believes that the other side will always concede once an agreement is reached and, in reality, understands only the language of force. From the onset, Netanyahu would have probably preferred using force against Iran, yet hesitated to initiate an attack himself, following the advice of the security establishment. The better alternative, in his eyes, would be for the United States to attack Iran. This is the reason he is disappointed with Obama, whom he seemingly perceives as a left-wing liberal appeaser.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.