President Donald Trump affirmed Friday that he can prevent Israel from attacking Lebanon, asserting that Israeli leaders respect him and follow his instructions. The statement, made during an interview, extends a series of recent remarks in which Trump has claimed authority over Israeli military decision-making regarding Lebanon and Iran.
In a Friday afternoon interview, President Donald Trump was asked whether he could prevent Israel from striking Lebanon. He responded: 'Yes. They have a lot of respect for me, and they do as I say.'
The remark is the latest in a rapid succession of Trump statements on Israel's regional posture. As The Zioneer reported earlier Friday, Trump said he needs to keep Prime Minister Netanyahu 'somewhat restrained' and that Israel will do 'what I tell it to do.' Trump also previously said Israel 'can do a better job' regarding Lebanon and told Netanyahu to be 'gentler' there.
The interview statement represents Trump's most categorical assertion yet that he both can and will interpose himself to prevent an Israeli strike on Lebanon. No specific Israeli operation was referenced, and Trump did not elaborate on what mechanism he would use to enforce his position.
2 developments
- StrongTrump: If Iran does not respect us, I will do what I must; addresses Lebanon and sanctions
- DevelopingTrump says Israel will follow his instructions on Iran
- DevelopingTrump says he'll 'take a look' at Netanyahu's claim Israel will keep troops in Lebanon
- DevelopingTrump warns Israel against further retaliation, says Iran signaled willingness to pause attacks if Israel reciprocates
Source and signal
- Open-source intake