Prime Minister Netanyahu told President Trump that Israeli forces will not withdraw from Lebanon, according to a report from the foreign affairs desk. Trump responded by saying the issue will be resolved quickly, without elaborating on the method. The exchange follows a series of public statements from both leaders over the northern front in recent days.
The exchange, reported Monday evening, adds a new layer to the ongoing diplomatic standoff over the northern front. Prime Minister Netanyahu has repeatedly stated in recent days that Israel will maintain its military presence in Lebanon, directly contradicting U.S. pressure to withdraw under the terms of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement.
As The Zioneer reported earlier Monday, Trump told reporters he would 'look into' Netanyahu's position and hinted he could resolve the issue quickly. The president also remarked that Iran has lost most of its military capabilities and that he intends to solve the Lebanon problem — including with Netanyahu.
The two leaders have been increasingly at odds over the northern front, with Defense Minister Katz confirming last week that Netanyahu explicitly told Trump Israel would not withdraw from security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. The U.S. has been pressing for a comprehensive ceasefire, but Israel's security-first stance has so far held firm.
No formal White House or Prime Minister's Office statement has been issued on tonight's exchange. The report originates from the foreign affairs desk's correspondent pool.
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