Jerusalem  -  US President Donald Trump’s decision to skip over Israel in his Middle East tour was just the latest sign of a shifting dynamic between the historic allies. From nuclear talks with Iran, a ceasefire deal in Yemen and the announcement of lifting sanctions on Syria, Trump has pressed ahead solo with Middle East diplomacy in recent weeks, seemingly sidelining his country’s long-time regional partner.  The United States on Monday secured the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander from Gaza after engaging directly with Hamas.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced mounting domestic criticism over his failure to bring home 57 hostages held in the Palestinian territory since October 7, 2023.

Despite both sides continuing to publicly describe their relationship as excellent, one widely read right-leaning Israeli paper has reported mutual frustrations behind the scenes.

The apparent realignment comes as Trump claims to be moving closer to an agreement with Iran on its nuclear programme, contrary to the Israeli position. “From its perspective, Israel appears to be sidelined in these talks,” said Eldad Shavit, a foreign policy expert at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) in Tel Aviv.

“American conduct so far indicates a more conciliatory approach,” Shavit added, contrasting with Israel’s demands for the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

This divergence risks a deal being reached that “will not be an agreement that Israel will like”, Shavit said.