PM Netanyahu's key confidant resigns: Ron Dermer steps down as Strategic Affairs minister

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s longtime political partner, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, officially announced his resignation from the government on Tuesday evening.

While Dermer had been scheduled to retire in December of last year, having originally agreed with his family to serve only a two-year term, the escalation of strikes on Iran and ongoing negotiations to end the war in Gaza led him to extend his tenure.

In a letter to Netanyahu, which Dermer shared in both Hebrew and English on his 𝕏 account, he thanked the prime minister for entrusting him with the role of Strategic Affairs Minister.

“As I end my tenure as Minister of Strategic Affairs, I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve closely by your side these past three years and for the trust you placed in me to handle the most significant issues facing Israel at this critical time,” Dermer wrote. 

pic.twitter.com/pZXdSZlFWo

— Ron Dermer - רון דרמר (@AmbDermer) November 11, 2025

Dermer also acknowledged the challenges facing the government as a result of the Oct. 7 attacks: “This government will be defined both by the attack on October 7th and by the prosecution of the two-year, seven-front war that followed.” 

He wrote that Israel has now "dealt a devastating blow to Iran's terror axis" and is "powerfully positioned to usher in an age of security, prosperity and peace."

Dermer, who grew up in the United States and has extensive knowledge of the American political landscape, was a key figure in guiding Netanyahu’s interactions with both former U.S. President Joe Biden and U.S. President Donald Trump during the Iron Swords War.

He has also been an outspoken advocate of strengthening and expanding relations between Israel and the Evangelical Christian world, following his seven-year tenure as the ambassador to the United States.

Dermer has also helped expand Israel’s circle of friendly relations in the Middle East, often doing so behind closed doors and with little publicity.

He was made the head of the hostage negotiating team following the removal of Mossad Chief David Barnea and the head of the Shin Bet. Last month, Hebrew media reported that Dermer planned to retire from the government in the near future. 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:
Thank you, Ron @AmbDermer, for your tremendous help to me and the state of Israel.

I am sure you have much more to contribute in the future. pic.twitter.com/Z0FurCWr3j

— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) November 11, 2025

After announcing his retirement, Netanyahu thanked Dermer for his service, posting a photo of the two on the official Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) 𝕏 account. 

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana posted a video of the Knesset clapping and cheering to congratulate Dermer on his service to the nation, writing in English, “Thank you, Ron.” 

Thank you, Ron.@AmbDermer pic.twitter.com/rMiySggFm6

— Amir Ohana - אמיר אוחנה (@AmirOhana) November 11, 2025

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee also praised Dermer for his role in the American-Israeli partnership. 

Dermer also thanked members of the government, the staff in his office, his family and God.

He signed the letter with a hint about his professional future, writing, “What the future holds for me, I do not know. But I know this: No matter what I do, I will continue to do my part to help secure the Jewish future.” 

Having known Ron Dermer for probably 20 yrs, I can attest to his value in US/Israel partnership & his creative diplomacy as @Israel Ambassador to US & to @IsraeliPM His wisdom & presence will be greatly missed, but glad he will continue in advisory role. https://t.co/8ejNj90hEG

— Ambassador Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) November 11, 2025

Reports in Israeli media suggest that Dermer will continue to serve as the Prime Minister’s special envoy, similar to the role performed by Steve Witkoff for President Donald Trump. In that position, Dermer will continue to focus on expanding the Abraham Accords, which he helped negotiate during his tenure in Washington.

“As I resign my post in the government, I could not be more confident in that future,” Dermer continued. 

“I have no doubt that the light of our eternal people will continue to burn bright for generations to come.”