U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of Lebanon, saying Israel owes its survival to his presidency.
U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Israel’s military operations in Lebanon, saying Israeli forces had gone “too far” and warning that continued escalation could jeopardize ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
Speaking on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, saying large numbers of civilians had been killed in Lebanese residential areas. He urged Israel to act more responsibly and avoid steps that could destabilize broader peace initiatives.
Trump said he remained on good terms with Netanyahu but stressed that Israeli leaders must show greater restraint as Washington works to advance regional diplomacy, including negotiations with Iran.
His comments come as the United States and Iran move toward the formal signing of a framework agreement aimed at ending recent hostilities and launching a new phase of negotiations. The proposed deal includes provisions linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, maintaining a ceasefire and beginning discussions on Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief.
The agreement has been welcomed by several regional governments as a potential step toward reducing tensions across the Middle East. Reports have also suggested that the Trump administration is considering support for a private investment mechanism worth up to $300 billion for Iran if Tehran complies with the terms of a broader settlement.
Israeli officials, however, have expressed concern about the emerging agreement. Netanyahu and several members of his government have argued that any reduction in economic pressure on Iran must be accompanied by strict guarantees preventing Tehran from rebuilding its nuclear capabilities or strengthening allied armed groups in the region.
Lebanon remains a major point of contention. Recent clashes involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces have threatened efforts to stabilize the region, while U.S. officials have reportedly urged all sides to avoid actions that could derail diplomatic progress.
The conflict in Gaza has also continued to shape regional calculations. International mediators have linked broader stability efforts in the Middle East to progress on both the Gaza war and tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, viewing them as interconnected challenges to any lasting peace process.
Trump’s remarks have fueled speculation about growing differences between Washington and Tel Aviv over how to manage Iran and regional security.
