TEL AVIV / TEHRAN — Iran is reportedly attempting to exploit tensions between Washington and Jerusalem, testing the strength of the relationship between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to regional and diplomatic sources.
Analysts say the move comes amid a volatile regional environment marked by continued Iran–Israel tensions and ongoing U.S.-led diplomatic efforts to contain escalation.
The reported strategy is viewed as an attempt by Tehran to widen differences in approach between the U.S. and Israel over how to handle Iran’s regional and nuclear challenges.
At the same time, Netanyahu is facing mounting domestic political pressure as Israel moves closer to early elections following the reported dissolution of the Knesset.
The political shift has accelerated expectations that voters could go to the polls sooner than previously planned.
Recent reporting by Reuters indicates that Netanyahu is also facing weakening public support, with opinion polls showing declining approval ratings.
The data suggests he is confronting one of the most politically difficult periods of his leadership.
Observers say the Israeli leader is increasingly constrained by competing pressures from domestic politics and regional security risks.
Tensions between the U.S. and Israel have also become more visible in recent months, particularly over the handling of Iran-related military and diplomatic strategy.
While Washington has pushed for restraint and negotiations in some instances, Israel has maintained a more security-focused approach toward Iran and its regional allies.
This divergence, analysts say, has created space for Iran to test the limits of coordination between the two partners.
Any further escalation involving Iran could have major implications for regional stability and Israel’s domestic political landscape.
Netanyahu, meanwhile, faces the challenge of maintaining coalition unity while preparing for a fast-approaching electoral campaign.
Political rivals are expected to campaign heavily on issues of security, governance, and relations with the United States.
With elections drawing closer, Israeli politics are entering a highly uncertain and competitive phase.
Diplomatic observers say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether tensions ease or further intensify across the region.
