ByIDAN KWELLER

JUNE 16, 2026 07:58

Iran along with Hezbollah and Hamas have faced major setbacks since October 7, according to former strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer who spoke Monday at United Hatzalah Annual New York Gala held in Lower Manhattan per a Hebrew recap of his comments.

At the Monday gathering where he received United Hatzalah Hero of Israel Award Dermer covered worries about a possible Iran deal the Hezbollah danger in Lebanon US-Israel relations and Gaza hostage talks.

Dermer noted that despite hearing many fears and concerns about a possible Iran agreement Israel ought to step back and evaluate the present strategic situation.

Two and a half years ago Iran represented an existential danger to Israel Dermer stated. Three years on Iran nuclear ability has been eliminated.

He noted that Iran holds leverage only through its enriched material stored at two deeply buried locations while its ballistic options have been delayed by years. This situation Dermer said provides Israel room to bolster its protections.

Dermer pointed out that ongoing talks should not be labeled a nuclear agreement but instead seen as moves to reduce global economic strain and partly ease pressure on Iran.

Within two or three weeks we will learn if the Iranians will abandon their nuclear efforts he said. I doubt that outcome will occur.

Hezbollah Diminished from 2023 Levels Dermer Notes

Shifting focus to Lebanon Dermer observed that Hezbollah no longer matches its October 7 strength yet cautioned the group keeps some military assets.

Hezbollah stands at perhaps 25 percent of its prior capacity he said.

Dermer explained that fully overcoming Hezbollah would demand a force double the IDF size but emphasized Israel refuses to let any terrorist group endanger its frontiers.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated clearly that Israel must move to block Hezbollah rebuilding Dermer said noting the Trump administration grasps Israel stance.

Dermer added the Middle East requires a power able to project strength and that Israel fills this role.

Israel Outranks France and Britain as US Partner

Addressing critiques from Tucker Carlson and others claiming Israel works against US goals Dermer called the notion absurd.

Israel serves as a stronger ally than France and Britain he said noting Israel ranks as a leading cyber force despite its limited population.

Dermer said partnerships depend on shared interests beyond values alone. Israel he added matters greatly to American security and prosperity.

Regarding Gaza hostage discussions Dermer said officials must weigh the obligation to return captives against the duty to protect 10 million Israelis.

He said Hamas sought to prolong talks for years but Israel choice to deploy troops into Gaza City proved key to achieving the last stage of hostage returns along with diplomatic efforts from the Trump administration.

Dermer said Israel and the US have achieved unmatched cooperation levels while involving regional players such as Qatar and Turkey.

The conflict concluded on Israel terms Dermer said. The effort continues and anyone believing Hamas can retain influence via hostages deceives himself.