ByMICAH HALPERN

JUNE 23, 2026 15:00

Hibbat Zion began as a movement and an idea, a proto-Zionist vision likely started by Dr. Leo Pinsker. His thoughts came before those of Theodor Herzl. Many of Pinsker core principles later appeared in Herzl writings, the recognized founder of Zionism. The effort, launched in the early 1880s, held its opening conference in Katowice in 1884.

Hovevei Zion formed clubs and circles that embraced the Hibbat Zion concept. They were true lovers of Zion.

This drive helped shape Zionism and, seventy years later in 1948, the creation of the State of Israel. Beyond a simple movement, Hibbat Zion sparked a revolution rooted in the belief that Jews must shape their future in their historic homeland.

Now many friends of Israel feel unsettled by US President Donald Trump and his push to secure an agreement from Iran. Both Jewish and non-Jewish supporters in America feel uneasy and confused, an unwelcome spot, due to the scattered details released about the Iran talks.

Until recently they trusted that Trump stood firmly behind Israel. Trump himself repeated that phrase many times.

Understanding how this president operates and what he truly believes has always been difficult. The simple view is to see Trump as harming Israel while strengthening Iran.

Trump acts from a blend of personal interest, sharp deal-making skill, and concern over long conflicts. He does not think Iran has changed or will gladly or easily honor any agreement they claim to accept.

If anything, he likely expects Iran to ignore the terms. He may even quietly welcome the Persian regime breaking the pact.

Trump seeks a short break. That pause has lifted markets, lowered crude oil prices quickly, and the president views this as proof his approach works, at least for now.

Criticizing allies such as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and directing Vice President JD Vance to challenge Israeli leaders sets the stage for later talks.

US, Israel relationship still strong

No split has occurred between Israel and the United States. Their bond remains firm. They can differ on issues. Trump seeks a deal while Bibi seeks security, and these goals do not rule each other out. Trump enjoys posturing.

Trump grows impatient with those who challenge him, especially in public and when it draws wide attention. He understands media influence and the images it creates.

One key result of his open clash with Israel is that the Arab and Muslim world notices Trump does not always back Israel. This clash boosts his standing. Then he shifts tactics. He lets Vance play the tough role, creating a good cop and bad cop dynamic. Vance presses Israel while Trump praises Netanyahu.

For Lovers of Zion this feels like a betrayal and a dangerous yield to Iran. Yet just as Iran ignores rules, Trump also ignores them. They both adjust the rules as needed.

Trump disagreement with the Israeli prime minister over Lebanon concerns timing and leverage, not policy or security. Israel aims to apply full pressure now. Trump wants a signed Iran deal. To reach that, Israel must pause its Lebanon operations. Trump hopes for gradual steps with Iran rather than an all-or-nothing approach.

Lovers of Zion need to grasp how Donald Trump thinks. He never views his moves as errors. He offers no apologies. His focus changes. While Israel security still matters at the White House, other matters have taken temporary priority. That focus will shift again.

The imbalance in the Iran talks is clear and deliberate. It forms part of Trump plan. He holds real leverage through this imbalance. Iran holds some, but Netanyahu holds none. For Trump the goal is simple: no nuclear weapons and no endless war. Netanyahu understands this, which explains why he has not openly criticized the president so far.

Israel has not lost its ally in the White House. Trump is testing a fresh path to end a long cycle and reshape the situation. Many chances remain to derail this deal. Soon enough the agreement will collapse, starting with the Strait of Hormuz.

The writer is a columnist and a social and political commentator. Watch his TV show Thinking Out Loud on JBS.