What began with an Iranian breach of the ceasefire escalated within hours into a political and military test for Israel, triggered not by Tehran but by Washington. US President Donald Trump, hailed by some in Israel as a “Messenger of God,” halted a comprehensive airstrike on Tehran at the last minute. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had to recall his pilots, leaving the Defense Minister and General Staff stunned. Ultra-Orthodox Minister Aryeh Deri, who had just praised Trump, witnessed the “Messenger” publicly berating Israel. It was a day oscillating between divine providence, geopolitical power, and military disillusionment. I genuinely wrestled with what to title this article. Perhaps: “The Messenger of God loses his nerve,” or “The Messenger of God curses Israel,” or “Israel angers the Messenger of God.” Because Donald Trump is indeed seen by many here as a divine envoy, a modern Cyrus in a red tie. And yesterday, on live camera, this Messenger of God had a rather earthly moment: he cursed, ranted, and gave Israel a heavenly scolding.

Shock in Israel. Confusion in the Air Force....

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