The Global Story: The US and Israel entered the Iran war together. Is Israel now being sidelined?

This bonus episode of The Global Story examines the shifting dynamics between the United States and Israel following their joint military campaign against Iran, focusing on how President Donald Trump has increasingly taken unilateral control over ceasefire decisions—despite Israel’s central role in launching the war. While Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu once shared a close, strategic alliance, recent events reveal a growing power imbalance, with Trump imposing ceasefires without consulting Netanyahu, particularly in Iran and Lebanon. The episode highlights how Israel was excluded from key diplomatic talks in Pakistan, deepening perceptions of sidelining. Despite Trump’s popularity in Israel due to pro-Israel policies, Netanyahu’s authority is eroding, as the public supports the war but not his leadership. Polls show declining trust in Netanyahu, and his political survival is now in question ahead of Israel’s October election. The episode underscores a broader theme: the U.S. is no longer just a partner but the de facto decision-maker in Middle East conflicts, leaving Israel increasingly dependent and vulnerable.