Israeli editorial urges defiance of US if core interests are at risk

Israeli newspaper The Jerusalem Post has warned that while ties with Washington remain strong, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government must be ready to defend its “core interests” - even if that means clashing with the United States.

In a newly published editorial, the paper argued: “There may be moments when [Israel] will need to act to protect its core interests, even in the face of American objections.”

It added that US President Donald Trump “may feel a strong affinity toward Israel” but is ultimately driven by what he sees as America’s priorities.

“His overriding priority is clear: he is looking out for what he defines as America’s interests - and increasingly, those are transactional in nature. So Israel must do the same,” the editorial stated.

The comments come as Israel intensifies its assault on Gaza. In the last 72 hours alone, hundreds have been killed, with at least 125 deaths reported since midnight.