US reshuffle of pro-'Israel' officials alarms occupation
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A series of high-level removals within the US administration has raised alarm in "Israel", as key pro-"Israel" figures are dismissed amid growing tensions between President Trump and Netanyahu over Gaza and Iran.
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US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrive for a news conference in the East Room of the White House, Feb. 4, 2025, in Washington. (AP)
Israeli officials are expressing growing concern over a series of unexpected personnel changes within the US administration, which have targeted figures long regarded as staunch supporters of "Israel", Israeli news outlet Ynet reported.
The shake-up comes amid escalating tensions between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over both the war on Gaza and a possible strike on Iran.
Among the most notable dismissals are Merav Ceren, a dual US-Israeli citizen who oversaw the Iran and "Israel" portfolio at the National Security Council, and Eric Trager, who led Middle East and North Africa policy. Both were appointed by former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, a strong supporter of "Israel", who was removed by Trump.
Their removal was reportedly executed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Waltz’s successor.
Another high-profile figure expected to be removed is Morgan Ortagus, deputy to special envoy Steve Witkoff and in charge of the Lebanon file.
Ortagus's leaving her post, although unfavorable for "Israel" due to her critical role in efforts to disarm Hezbollah, marks the departure of a controversial figure in Lebanon, with her statements, such as thanking "Israel" for what she claimed was defeating Hezbollah in the Presidential Palace in Baabda, inflaming tensions in the country, flouting proper protocol, and meddling in Lebanon's internal affairs.
Her dismissal, which sources say was not voluntary, has shocked officials in "Israel", where she was seen as a key ally. Ortagus is reportedly being reassigned to internal duties within the State Department and will have no further role in Middle East diplomacy.
According to Lebanese outlet al-Akhbar, Ortagus had sought a more senior regional role, aiming to take over the Syria portfolio. However, her responsibilities are now expected to be reassigned, possibly to Joel Rayburn or Thomas Barrack. The Lebanese file, sources noted, has been downgraded in US priorities, with attention shifting to Syria.
American sources confirmed to Lebanon’s MTV network that Ortagus had been dismissed due to internal professional issues unrelated to Lebanon. Her upcoming trip to Beirut has been canceled, and Rayburn is expected to assume oversight of the Lebanon file as assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs.
Trump’s 'America First' agenda reshapes US foreign policy
Israeli sources familiar with US-"Israel" relations view the wave of dismissals as part of President Trump’s broader “America First” agenda, aimed at limiting foreign influence across the board. While not directly targeting "Israel", the shake-up reflects an internal push to consolidate Trump’s control over foreign policy.
The removal of key figures is seen as a move to sideline the National Security Council. Trump has left the post of national security advisor vacant, with Secretary Rubio unofficially assuming its responsibilities.
Consequently, Rubio’s role in the reshuffle has raised eyebrows, particularly given his history of pro-"Israel" advocacy. However, insiders note that while Rubio remains supportive, he is more pragmatic and less aligned with the Israeli agenda than his predecessor, Waltz.
Analysts believe the change signals a shift toward greater centralization of foreign policy decisions under Trump and a break from the traditionally pro-"Israel" posture that defined previous administrations.
Netanyahu feels 'betrayed'
The reshuffle has deepened strains between Netanyahu and the Trump administration. In private discussions with Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Netanyahu reportedly admitted he had misjudged Washington’s direction and felt betrayed by the unexpected policy shift.
Senior officials claimed Netanyahu had lost confidence in Dermer, accusing him of misreading the US administration. "Dermer misread the situation; he was convinced the US would never turn against us," said one source. "He failed to anticipate the shift in US policy toward Israel."
Though the Prime Minister’s Office denied reports of Netanyahu criticizing Dermer, sources close to the matter say the strategic relationship between "Israel" and the Trump administration is showing clear signs of strain.
According to informed sources, the push to remove pro-"Israel" figures is being led by Vice President JD Vance and Donald Trump Jr., with influence from a growing ideological current within Trump’s circle known as the “White Woke” faction. This group, which includes figures such as Tucker Carlson, reportedly views "Israel" with increasing suspicion.
"They are sowing suspicion toward Israel and telling Trump that Israel is trying to drag the US into war," one senior Israeli official warned. "This is the new America, and it’s deeply concerning to Netanyahu."
Read more: Trump making Netanyahu nervous amid policy shifts: The Atlantic
