Netanyahu's West Bank annexation threatens Israel's democracy and U.S. interests more than Iran does
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/by/thomas-l-friedman. "Opinion | Netanyahu Plays Trump and American Jews for Fools — Again - The New York Times." February 17, 2026. www.nytimes.com
The Gist
Friedman argues that while everyone is focused on the Iranian threat, Netanyahu is actually doing more damage to Israel by trying to take over the West Bank, destroy democratic institutions, and avoid accountability. This is making Israel look like an apartheid state and turning young Americans against it, which hurts both Israel and U.S. interests more than Iran ever could.
Conclusion
Netanyahu's government poses a greater threat to Israel's democracy, U.S.-Israeli relations, and Jewish security worldwide than Iran does, and the U.S. should not allow Netanyahu to distract from this with Iran-focused rhetoric
Premises
- Israel is conducting ethnic cleansing and annexation in the West Bank through settler violence and land seizures
- Netanyahu's judicial coup attempts are undermining Israel's rule of law and democratic institutions
- Israel's actions are turning it into an apartheid state that will become a pariah internationally
- Growing numbers of young American voters are turning against Israel due to its Gaza and West Bank policies
- Netanyahu has blocked accountability measures like corruption trials and Oct. 7 investigation commissions
- Israel's current military strength provides an unprecedented opportunity for peace with Arab neighbors through a two-state solution
- Netanyahu's annexation agenda directly contradicts Trump's stated two-state solution plans
Assumptions
- Democratic rule of law and separation of powers are essential for Israel's legitimacy
- International opinion and support matter for Israel's long-term security
- A two-state solution is both feasible and necessary for regional peace
- American public opinion will eventually constrain U.S. support for Israel if current trends continue
- Netanyahu's actions are primarily motivated by personal political survival rather than security