Jerusalem (CNN) Senior political and military figures in Israel have sharply criticized the US announcement of a military withdrawal from Syria.

An opposition figure described it as a surrender, while a retired air force general said it was a move that would damage the reputation of the United States. Others said it would strengthen Iran, embolden Russia, create complications for Israel and challenges for regional US allies such as Jordan.

Political figures said the move was acutely embarrassing for Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has made his close relationship with President Donald Trump one of the cornerstones of his foreign policy.

Trump announced the decision Wednesday, saying in a video on Twitter that the US had defeated ISIS and no longer had a need to stay in Syria. The US has had about 2,000 troops on the ground in Syria, where they have primarily been training local forces and working with Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces to combat ISIS.

'Beaten them badly'

Read More