Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Israel will not hesitate to inform even the President of the United States of its core principles, emphasizing moments when national security demands unwavering resolve. Speaking at the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel Conference, Netanyahu addressed ongoing operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon and reflected on past decisions that defied American counsel.
Netanyahu on Hezbollah and US Relations
Netanyahu acknowledged that while Hezbollah remains present in Lebanon, Israeli forces are systematically dismantling its infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of maintaining Israel's stance even when it contradicts the wishes of its closest ally. "There are moments when you must know how to tell even the President of the United States what we stand for," Netanyahu stated, according to excerpts posted on X by his office.
He recounted interactions with former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, particularly regarding the operation in Rafah. "I also told President Trump, well, two presidents, Biden first of all, when they told me 'Do not enter Rafah.' Do you know why they said 'Do not enter Rafah'? Because the President of the United States said he would halt the weapons supply. I said I respect him very much, and he even came here at the beginning of the war, but we have no choice, we will enter - and if we must, we will fight with our fingernails," Netanyahu said.
Operation Rising Lion and Iran
Netanyahu also referenced Operation Rising Lion, a military campaign against Iran. He stated that he informed President Trump of the operation without seeking permission. "When I came to President Trump before Operation Rising Lion, I told him: 'We are going into Iran, because I am not waiting for these oppressors who declare openly that they want to destroy us, and you too, by the way, I told him, but us first. I will not let that happen. Therefore, we are taking action.' I didn't ask for permission; I simply informed him of our plan. To my joy, he also joined toward the end with a very important action," he added.
Criticism and Achievements
Netanyahu addressed critics who questioned his military strategies, noting that even after achieving 80-90% of objectives, they continue to doubt. "But they said 'it's impossible.' Don't do it. Don't get entangled, because Iran will come and destroy our cities and our citizens, and thousands, if not tens of thousands, will die. So the very same people who told us don't enter Gaza, don't enter Rafah, don't enter Lebanon, don't enter Syria, don't enter Iran, Master of the Universe, don't destroy their leadership..." he said.
He contrasted their initial opposition with their current criticism: "Today, they come and tell us, 'But you didn't finish the job.' They, who wanted zero, come and tell us, 'You didn't achieve 100%, only 80-90%.' There is still work to do, it is not over, that is true, but who will do it? If you don't have true leadership, not what they put in the talking points of various advertising agencies," he added.
Ongoing Diplomatic Talks
Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions are underway in Washington between Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors regarding the establishment of pilot zones. These zones are intended to facilitate the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the deployment of the Lebanese army, according to Al Jazeera. The talks aim to stabilize the border region and reduce tensions between the two countries.
