Far-right activists (in the background) disrupt a demonstration against wars in Iran, Lebanon and Gaza, in Tel Aviv, Israel, on March 7, 2026. LAURENCE GEAI/MYOP FOR LE MONDE
T
he ultimate check for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a man who himself has respected none of the traditional checks and balances of American democracy: Donald Trump. Such is the situation in Israel, at war continuously since the attack it suffered on October 7, 2023, with its military power at an all-time high and authority more concentrated in the hands of one individual than ever before. After 12 days of intense air bombardments on two fronts, Iran and Lebanon, Netanyahu summed up his view of the Iranian regime on the evening of Monday, March 9, in a single phrase: "There is no doubt that with the actions taken so far, we are breaking their bones."
A few days ago, his inner circle described the joint attack as a way to protect "the civilized world," as well as Israeli citizens. "We are changing the face of the Middle East," declared Netanyahu, quoting the motto of his former combat unit, borrowed from the SAS, the famed British special forces: "Who dares wins." To dare, the prime minister is relying on a plan that mobilizes Zionism, the army, God and his "friend" Trump. "With God's help, together, we will ensure the eternity of Israel," Netanyahu proclaims at the close of his speeches.
