Haaretz Podcast 'American Jews really hate Trump. But they hate Netanyahu even more'
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Apr 28, 2026 Joshua Leifer, Haaretz columnist and historian, explains shifting U.S.-Israel dynamics and American Jewish views. He discusses how the Iran conflict reshaped U.S. politics, the fragile cease-fire and a dangerous no-war/no-peace limbo. He also covers Netanyahu’s political gamble at home and the growing Democratic push to condition or end arms sales to Israel.
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Why Trump May Prefer A Limbo Over Renewed War
- Donald Trump is unlikely to resume a full war with Iran because it's politically unpopular and he has limited political capital.
- Leifer adds Trump watches the stock market and may accept a limbo if markets stay calm, making war or deal less appealing.
Netanyahu's Iran Gamble May Backfire Politically
- Netanyahu gambled that backing U.S. action against Iran would yield an electoral dividend, but the expected boost hasn't materialized.
- Leifer argues Netanyahu misread Israel's capacity for quick regime change and may pay domestically at the ballot box.
Why Americans Reacted Very Differently To Gaza And Iran
- Americans viewed the Gaza war as a distant humanitarian spectacle but see the Iran war as a conflict the U.S. was dragged into by Israel.
- Joshua Leifer explains that being a direct U.S. partner makes Americans feel tricked into a costly, incomprehensible war.