U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Israel to exercise restraint and “use good judgment” in its military operations in Lebanon, while reaffirming Washington’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself.
Speaking to reporters during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Trump said:
“I want Israel to be able to defend itself, but I also want them to use good judgment.”
The comments come amid growing tensions between the White House and the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration with Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict and recently stated that the Israeli leader needed to be “more responsible” regarding developments in Lebanon.
According to reports, Trump believes that continued Israeli strikes against Hezbollah have complicated negotiations between the United States and Iran. Tehran has reportedly insisted that any broader ceasefire arrangement must also include Lebanon.
Despite these differences, Netanyahu has sought to avoid a public confrontation with Trump. Commenting on the recent U.S.-Iran agreement, the Israeli leader acknowledged that he and Trump do not always share identical views.
“There are times when President Trump and I do not hold the same position. I am responsible for Israel’s security interests, and that must be done wisely,” Netanyahu said.
The exchange highlights growing diplomatic pressure surrounding the Lebanon conflict, as regional powers and international actors seek to prevent further escalation while pursuing broader stability in the Middle East.
