Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has criticised US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an agreement with Iran, saying the deal is “not binding on Israel”.
The announcement by Trump early on Monday triggered angry reactions within Israeli political circles, with Ben Gvir among the most outspoken critics.
According to comments carried by Hebrew-language media, Ben Gvir said: “Israel is not subordinate to the United States. It is an independent and sovereign state, and any agreement reached by Trump does not bind us. We are committed first and foremost to protecting our citizens and soldiers.”
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The Far-right minister added that his government was not a partner to the agreement, arguing that it “does not take Israeli security interests into account” and stressing that Tel Aviv is not obligated to comply with any of its provisions.
Ben Gvir also rejected any arrangement that could lead Israel to scale back its military objectives.
“We cannot accept anything less than the dismantling of Hezbollah, nor can we give up any territory we have taken control of. We also cannot return to a situation in which thousands of armed militants are positioned along the borders of the northern settlements,” he said.
He added: “We certainly cannot remain silent in the face of any gunfire directed at Israel, and we will continue to take all measures we consider necessary to ensure the security of our citizens.”
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