Trump Blasts Netanyahu's Lebanon Policy, Urges Israel to Let Syria Handle Hezbollah

President Trump’s remarks represent a significant escalation in diplomatic friction between Washington and Jerusalem regarding the northern front. During the G7 summit, Trump stated plainly that he had informed Israel of his disapproval regarding strikes in the Lebanese capital. "I told Israel that I do not like its attack on Beirut," Trump said, adding that Netanyahu "has to be more responsible" and that the fighting has continued for "too long."

The Syrian Proposal

In a move that challenges long-standing Israeli security doctrines, Trump suggested that Syria—now under the leadership of Ahmad al-Sharaa—would be better suited to handle the Hezbollah threat. "I suggested to Israel to let Syria take care of Hezbollah," Trump remarked. "To be honest with you, I think they would do a better job." This proposal comes despite consistent Israeli concerns regarding the stability of the new Syrian government and the potential for renewed Iranian influence through Damascus.

Operational Constraints and Deadlines

The diplomatic pressure appears to be manifesting as concrete operational constraints. According to reporting by Shirit Avitan Cohen of Israel Hayom, Trump is specifically pressuring Netanyahu to withdraw IDF forces from Lebanon by Friday. This aligns with statements from Israeli security officials who told Maariv that Beirut has effectively become a "prohibited zone" for IDF operations due to American dictates. Trump criticized the humanitarian cost of the campaign, stating, "You don't have to knock down an apartment house every time you're looking for somebody."

Strategic Outlook

While Trump increases the pressure, the regional picture remains volatile. IRGC Quds Force Commander Esmail Qaani recently praised Hezbollah’s performance, signaling that the "Axis of Resistance" remains committed to the conflict. For Netanyahu, the challenge involves balancing the essential security requirement of neutralizing Hezbollah's infrastructure in southern Lebanon against the risk of a total breach with his most critical international ally. As the Friday deadline approaches, the IDF continues to strike immediate threats in southern Lebanon, even as the diplomatic window for independent action appears to be closing.