Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that some Christian villages in Lebanon have expressed interest in being annexed by Israel, triggering fresh debate across the region. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border and have drawn attention to the complex political, religious, and security dynamics at play. This episode of Gravitas explores Netanyahu's claims, the reactions they have generated, and the potential implications for Israel-Lebanon relations and regional stability.

Netanyahu wants to annex Christian villages in Lebanon 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken about his relationship with US President Donald Trump ahead of a possible visit to the United States. The remarks come as both countries continue discussions on regional security, diplomacy, and ongoing developments in the Middle East. A potential meeting is expected to focus on bilateral ties and key strategic issues affecting the region.

Netanyahu discusses Trump relations ahead of possible US visit 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a bizarre claim on Sunday (July 5) to justify his country's offensive in Lebanon. In an interview with America's Fox News, Netanyahu claimed that some Christian villages in southern Lebanon had asked to be annexed by Israel, in order to be protected from Hezbollah. While Netanyahu did not name the Christian villages, &nbsp;mayor of the Christian village of Rmeish, Hanna al-Amil, was quoted by Lebanese public broadcaster NNA as denying Netanyahu's claim.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-knows-who-the-boss-is-trump-says-ahead-of-possible-white-house-meet-1783229474079">Netanyahu ‘knows who the boss is’: Trump says</a>&nbsp;"Christian villages in Lebanon, some of them have actually asked to be annexed to Israel, because we protect them against the Hezbollah, Hezbollah fanatics who want to kill them, and we do the same things with Christians everywhere," Netanyahu told Fox News show "The Sunday Briefing". Lebanon was drawn into the wider West Asia war on March 2 when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. Israel responded with massive airstrikes and a ground invasion of southern Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-india-support-israel-1-4-billion-people-fox-news-1783270226213">Netanyahu says India's 1.4 billion people show 'tremendous support'</a><h2>Lebanese mayor denies claims</h2>Stating that Netanyahu's claims are false, mayor from a Christian village said that as many as “15 Christian towns had issued a statement two days ago denying these allegations.” The villages also reaffirmed their determination to stay on their land, with the mayor saying that even contemplating the idea was "absolutely out of the question." They said that stressing their "loyalty to their national identity" and their “attachment to their Lebanese flag.”&nbsp;This comes amid reports suggesting that Trump and Netanyahu may meet next week in the White House. The two are going through a rough patch in their relationship, with Trump stating recently that Netanyahu knows who is the boss and hence he requested to meet. He added that the two leaders get along “very good.” Amid reports of rift, Netanyahu has batted for Israel to reduce dependency on the US militarily. He has also said in a recent interview that Israel is supported by India. &nbsp;

Netanyahu claimed some Christian villages in southern Lebanon had sought annexation by Israel for protection from Hezbollah. Lebanese officials rejected the claim, while Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's military presence in southern Lebanon and addressed ties with US President Donald Trump.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a bizarre claim on Sunday (July 5) to justify his country's offensive in Lebanon. In an interview with America's Fox News, Netanyahu claimed that some Christian villages in southern Lebanon had asked to be annexed by Israel, in order to be protected from Hezbollah. While Netanyahu did not name the Christian villages, mayor of the Christian village of Rmeish, Hanna al-Amil, was quoted by Lebanese public broadcaster NNA as denying Netanyahu's claim. Also Read: Netanyahu ‘knows who the boss is’: Trump says "Christian villages in Lebanon, some of them have actually asked to be annexed to Israel, because we protect them against the Hezbollah, Hezbollah fanatics who want to kill them, and we do the same things with Christians everywhere," Netanyahu told Fox News show "The Sunday Briefing". Lebanon was drawn into the wider West Asia war on March 2 when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. Israel responded with massive airstrikes and a ground invasion of southern Lebanon. Also Read: Netanyahu says India's 1.4 billion people show 'tremendous support' Lebanese mayor denies claims Stating that Netanyahu's claims are false, mayor from a Christian village said that as many as “15 Christian towns had issued a statement two days ago denying these allegations.” The villages also reaffirmed their determination to stay on their land, with the mayor saying that even contemplating the idea was "absolutely out of the question." They said that stressing their "loyalty to their national identity" and their “attachment to their Lebanese flag.” This comes amid reports suggesting that Trump and Netanyahu may meet next week in the White House. The two are going through a rough patch in their relationship, with Trump stating recently that Netanyahu knows who is the boss and hence he requested to meet. He added that the two leaders get along “very good.” Amid reports of rift, Netanyahu has batted for Israel to reduce dependency on the US militarily. He has also said in a recent interview that Israel is supported by India.

Netanyahu claimed some Christian villages in southern Lebanon had sought annexation by Israel for protection from Hezbollah. Lebanese officials rejected the claim, while Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's military presence in southern Lebanon and addressed ties with US President Donald Trump.

'We protect them...': Netanyahu makes annexation claim about Christian villages to justify Lebanon offensive

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in The Sunday Briefing with Fox News, responded to US Vice President JD Vance's criticism of Israel about the declining support, suggesting that Israel's support is not limited to any one leader or country. He said that Israel has no greater ally than the US, but pointed to a “small country”, India, suggesting that the majority of the 1.4 billion population in the country supports him.&nbsp;“Donald Trump is great, the greatest friend we ever had in the White House,” Netanyahu said. “And I stand by that completely.” He added, “You know, I have this Facebook thing, and I'm just flooded by the overwhelming support there, and we have many others.” “Secondly, we have some other friends, like a small country called India,” he said. “You know, it has 1.4 billion people. And boy, do we have a tremendous support there.”Netanyahu denied disagreements with Trump, suggesting that they are like a family and most of the time concur on a goal.“In 99% of cases we see eye to eye. But like in every family, and like in every close friendship, there are sometimes disagreements, and we discuss them openly,” Netanyahu told Fox. Netanyahu claimed that both the US and Israel have a shared goal, removing nuclear-enriched material and dismantling nuclear enrichment sites. He claimed that following the military operation, the US thinks those goals can be achieved through negotiations, regardless of the diplomatic relationship and the US-Iran MoU, as long as he is the Prime Minister of Israel, Iran will not develop a nuclear weapon.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pensacola-florida-july-4-mass-shooting-one-killed-six-injured-1783267359709">One killed, six injured in mass shooting during July 4 celebrations in Pensacola, Florida</a><h2>Netanyahu claims Christian villages 'asked to be annexed' by Israel&nbsp;</h2>Netanyahu denied the accusation of Israel being in a permanent state of war, hinting at the Abraham Accords and the recently signed Israel-Lebanon deal. “Lebanon would like to free itself of Hezbollah terrorists who are, you know, making their lives miserable,” he continued. “They'd like to free Lebanon. I hope we can get more peace deals.” He claimed that some Christian villages in southern Lebanon asked to be annexed by Israel, to be protected from Hezbollah militants. But Netanyahu did not specify which villages he was talking about, though multiple verified videos and photographs have shown Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) soldiers damaging and defiling Christian religious sites and property in southern Lebanon, such as Debel Jesus Statue Destruction and Deir Mimas Church Defilement, though the IDF framed these events as isolated acts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ce qu&#39;Israël 🇮🇱a fait au Liban 🇱🇧n&#39;était pas un incident isolé concernant la destruction de la statue de Jesus . En novembre 2024, des images ont circulé montrant des soldats profanant une église et se moquant de Marie. Des soldats d’occupation israéliens🇮🇱 🇮🇱de l&#39;unité Golani… <a href="https://t.co/DrJTePm1mj">pic.twitter.com/DrJTePm1mj</a>&mdash; Kamelia (@Elissamaiss) <a href="https://x.com/Elissamaiss/status/2049957055805771890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said India's 1.4 billion people show 'tremendous support' for Israel while responding to criticism over declining US backing.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in The Sunday Briefing with Fox News, responded to US Vice President JD Vance's criticism of Israel about the declining support, suggesting that Israel's support is not limited to any one leader or country. He said that Israel has no greater ally than the US, but pointed to a “small country”, India, suggesting that the majority of the 1.4 billion population in the country supports him. “Donald Trump is great, the greatest friend we ever had in the White House,” Netanyahu said. “And I stand by that completely.” He added, “You know, I have this Facebook thing, and I'm just flooded by the overwhelming support there, and we have many others.” “Secondly, we have some other friends, like a small country called India,” he said. “You know, it has 1.4 billion people. And boy, do we have a tremendous support there.” Netanyahu denied disagreements with Trump, suggesting that they are like a family and most of the time concur on a goal.“In 99% of cases we see eye to eye. But like in every family, and like in every close friendship, there are sometimes disagreements, and we discuss them openly,” Netanyahu told Fox. Netanyahu claimed that both the US and Israel have a shared goal, removing nuclear-enriched material and dismantling nuclear enrichment sites. He claimed that following the military operation, the US thinks those goals can be achieved through negotiations, regardless of the diplomatic relationship and the US-Iran MoU, as long as he is the Prime Minister of Israel, Iran will not develop a nuclear weapon. Also Read: One killed, six injured in mass shooting during July 4 celebrations in Pensacola, Florida Netanyahu claims Christian villages 'asked to be annexed' by Israel Netanyahu denied the accusation of Israel being in a permanent state of war, hinting at the Abraham Accords and the recently signed Israel-Lebanon deal. “Lebanon would like to free itself of Hezbollah terrorists who are, you know, making their lives miserable,” he continued. “They'd like to free Lebanon. I hope we can get more peace deals.” He claimed that some Christian villages in southern Lebanon asked to be annexed by Israel, to be protected from Hezbollah militants. But Netanyahu did not specify which villages he was talking about, though multiple verified videos and photographs have shown Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) soldiers damaging and defiling Christian religious sites and property in southern Lebanon, such as Debel Jesus Statue Destruction and Deir Mimas Church Defilement, though the IDF framed these events as isolated acts.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said India's 1.4 billion people show 'tremendous support' for Israel while responding to criticism over declining US backing.

Netanyahu says India's 1.4 billion people show 'tremendous support' for Israel amid US criticism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have agreed to a meeting in the near future in the United States, in a telephonic conversation on Friday, July 3, according to a report by Times of Israel, which cited the PMO Israel. Netanyahu congratulated Trump on the 250th anniversary of the US Independence Day. He said that “the US is what ensures the freedom of the world, and Israel greatly appreciates the tight bond between the nations.”&nbsp;While no official date or location has been confirmed, the statement suggests that “Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump agreed to meet soon in the US." Israeli broadcaster Kan reported that the two sides are planning to meet at the White House. The report also suggests that Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is also expected to visit Washington during that time. Trump is seeking to bring them together despite suggestions that the Lebanese president had opposed direct phone contact with the Israeli premier.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-uk-france-military-deployment-strait-of-hormuz-1783162764183">Iran issues stark warning to UK, France over Strait of Hormuz military plan</a><h2>US planning to shift Gulf bases to Israel</h2>This meeting comes as the Wall Street Journal reported on the US shifting the operational systems in its military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia to Negev, Israel, after suffering heavy attack from the Iranian missile and incurring $400 million worth of damage. The attempt is to increase the distance between US bases and Iranian missile launchers. A period of heightened tension ensued between the two traditional allies, the US and Israel, in light of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding that was signed on June 17. Tensions rose after Trump publicly criticised Netanyahu's heavy-handed military strategy against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which Trump argued was threatening the fragile peace in the region. Following the tensions, the US brokered a Trilateral Framework Agreement between Israel and the Lebanese government, which was officially signed on June 26, 2026. It sought to disarm Hezbollah in exchange for Israeli withdrawl from Southern Lebanon. Hezbollah did not agree to that framework and forced the US-Iran MoU as the existing framework to be worked on.

Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have agreed to meet in the US as reports emerge of a possible White House meeting amid renewed tensions and regional security developments.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have agreed to a meeting in the near future in the United States, in a telephonic conversation on Friday, July 3, according to a report by Times of Israel, which cited the PMO Israel. Netanyahu congratulated Trump on the 250th anniversary of the US Independence Day. He said that “the US is what ensures the freedom of the world, and Israel greatly appreciates the tight bond between the nations.” While no official date or location has been confirmed, the statement suggests that “Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump agreed to meet soon in the US." Israeli broadcaster Kan reported that the two sides are planning to meet at the White House. The report also suggests that Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is also expected to visit Washington during that time. Trump is seeking to bring them together despite suggestions that the Lebanese president had opposed direct phone contact with the Israeli premier. Also Read: Iran issues stark warning to UK, France over Strait of Hormuz military plan US planning to shift Gulf bases to Israel This meeting comes as the Wall Street Journal reported on the US shifting the operational systems in its military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia to Negev, Israel, after suffering heavy attack from the Iranian missile and incurring $400 million worth of damage. The attempt is to increase the distance between US bases and Iranian missile launchers. A period of heightened tension ensued between the two traditional allies, the US and Israel, in light of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding that was signed on June 17. Tensions rose after Trump publicly criticised Netanyahu's heavy-handed military strategy against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which Trump argued was threatening the fragile peace in the region. Following the tensions, the US brokered a Trilateral Framework Agreement between Israel and the Lebanese government, which was officially signed on June 26, 2026. It sought to disarm Hezbollah in exchange for Israeli withdrawl from Southern Lebanon. Hezbollah did not agree to that framework and forced the US-Iran MoU as the existing framework to be worked on.

Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have agreed to meet in the US as reports emerge of a possible White House meeting amid renewed tensions and regional security developments.

Trump, Netanyahu agree to meet amid reports of shifting US bases in Gulf to Negev, Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has fiercely denied an explosive media report alleging that Washington feared Israel might attempt to assassinate top Iranian negotiators during Islamabad diplomatic talks earlier this year.The pushback follows a report by The New York Times that claimed that American officials were deeply concerned Israel would target Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. According to the report, these anxieties peaked in the weeks following the April 8 ceasefire, which paused the military conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-india-withstand-another-west-asia-crisis-how-israel-hezbollah-iran-tensions-could-hit-its-energy-security-wion-decodes-1782374369218">Can India withstand another West Asia crisis? How Israel-Hezbollah-Iran tensions could hit its energy security | WION Decodes</a><h2>What did Israel say?</h2>Netanyahu’s office issued a blunt rejection on X, labelling the claims a total fiction. "As usual, The New York Times' latest story about Israel and the Iranian negotiators is fake news," the Prime Minister’s Office stated. "A complete fabrication of reality."According to the Times, US intelligence and diplomatic officials went as far as passing indirect warnings to Tehran through regional intermediaries. Washington reportedly asked counterparts in neighbouring Middle Eastern nations to alert Iran that its chief representatives might face assassination attempts.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Prime Minister’s Office: As usual, The New York Times&#39; latest story about Israel and the Iranian negotiators is fake news. A complete fabrication of reality.&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://x.com/IsraeliPM/status/2073059099525157227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While both Araghchi and Ghalibaf were considered active targets by Israel during the initial, high-intensity phase of the war, American officials argued that killing them after the April ceasefire would have instantly collapsed the peace process and re-ignited full-scale hostilities.The report highlighted a specific, narrow escape on April 12, when Iranian security forces allegedly ordered Ghalibaf’s plane to make an emergency landing in Mashhad after intelligence indicated Israeli fighter jets had entered Iranian airspace from Iraq to intercept it.Neither Washington nor Tehran has formally confirmed the NYT account.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lake-lucerne-summit-first-us-iran-talks-in-switzerland-end-with-cautious-optimism-what-was-agreed-and-what-comes-next-wion-decodes-1782100259630">Lake Lucerne Summit: First US-Iran talks in Switzerland end with cautious optimism. What was agreed and what comes next? | WION Decodes</a><h2>A growing strategy rift between the US and Israel</h2>The allegations underscore the friction building between the Trump administration and Netanyahu's government over the scope of the regional conflict. In the opening weeks of the war, Israel successfully eliminated a significant portion of Iran's political and military command structure, including the country's former supreme leader Ali Khamenei.However, as it became clear the campaign would not trigger total regime change in Tehran, Washington shifted its priority toward a negotiated settlement—a move Netanyahu has frequently undermined. The assassination of senior Iranian national security official Ali Larijani in March reportedly infuriated US officials, who felt Israel was systematically wiping out the very interlocutors they needed to broker a truce.The report drew further parallels to a September 2025 strike in Doha, which targeted and killed Hamas negotiators during active ceasefire discussions.<h2>Netanyahu and Trump schedule face-to-face talks</h2>Despite the tactical disagreements behind the scenes, both leaders are attempting to show a unified public front. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the Prime Minister spoke with US President Donald Trump by phone on Friday to congratulate him on the 250th anniversary of American independence.During the call, the two leaders agreed to meet in the United States in the near future to coordinate on regional security. "The US is what ensures the freedom of the world, and Israel greatly appreciates the tight bond between the nations," Netanyahu reportedly told Trump.

Did Washington fear Israel could assassinate Iran's top negotiators and derail a fragile peace process? An explosive report says US officials quietly warned Tehran through intermediaries, but Benjamin Netanyahu's office has now issued a furious response, calling the claims "fake news".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has fiercely denied an explosive media report alleging that Washington feared Israel might attempt to assassinate top Iranian negotiators during Islamabad diplomatic talks earlier this year. The pushback follows a report by The New York Times that claimed that American officials were deeply concerned Israel would target Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. According to the report, these anxieties peaked in the weeks following the April 8 ceasefire, which paused the military conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Also read | Can India withstand another West Asia crisis? How Israel-Hezbollah-Iran tensions could hit its energy security | WION Decodes What did Israel say? Netanyahu’s office issued a blunt rejection on X, labelling the claims a total fiction. "As usual, The New York Times' latest story about Israel and the Iranian negotiators is fake news," the Prime Minister’s Office stated. "A complete fabrication of reality." According to the Times, US intelligence and diplomatic officials went as far as passing indirect warnings to Tehran through regional intermediaries. Washington reportedly asked counterparts in neighbouring Middle Eastern nations to alert Iran that its chief representatives might face assassination attempts.

Did Washington fear Israel could assassinate Iran's top negotiators and derail a fragile peace process? An explosive report says US officials quietly warned Tehran through intermediaries, but Benjamin Netanyahu's office has now issued a furious response, calling the claims "fake news".

Netanyahu’s office slams report claiming US feared Israel would assassinate Iranian negotiators

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined the core principles for a proposed unity government, signalling an effort to build broader political consensus amid mounting domestic and regional challenges. The move comes at a critical moment for Israel's political future.

Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu sets out core principles for a unity government

The Israeli military said on Sunday (Jun 28) that it had destroyed a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon, triggering fresh tensions with Hezbollah just two days after Israel and Lebanon signed a US-backed framework agreement intended to pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and warned that it reserved the "right to defend its homeland and its people".The developments have cast fresh doubt over the future of the deal, which seeks not only to end decades of hostility between the two countries but also to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.According to Lebanese state media, several Israeli strikes were reported across southern Lebanon on Sunday, including in the Nabatieh area. Lebanon's health ministry said two people were wounded after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-increase-tensions-iran-issues-fresh-warning-over-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-routes-1782694812472">'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes</a><h2>Massive tunnel destroyed</h2>In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had uncovered and destroyed an extensive Hezbollah tunnel network. "The tunnel, stretching more than 200 metres and reaching a depth of over 25 metres, contained hundreds of weapons as well as several launch shafts intended to target the State of Israel and its civilians," the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🎯DISMANTLED: An underground Hezbollah terror complex in the area of Majdal Zoun, within the Security Zone in southern Lebanon. The underground complex was constructed using technology and expertise provided by the Iranian terror regime. The tunnel route was 200+ meters long and…&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://x.com/IDF/status/2071344751434244500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israeli officials added that Washington and the US representative in Lebanon had been informed before the operation was carried out.An AFP journalist in the coastal city of Tyre reported seeing smoke rising near the village of Majdal Zoun following the detonation. Residents in nearby towns reportedly left their homes after local media warned that Israel could carry out explosions in the area.The Israeli army later announced that one of its soldiers had been killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon. It also claimed to have killed what it described as a Hezbollah operative involved in clashes with Israeli forces.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/israel-deletes-post-promoting-ben-jerry-s-new-genocidaires-ice-cream-after-online-backlash-gaza-war-1782535460281">Israel deletes post promoting Ben &amp; Jerry's new 'Genocidaires' ice cream after online backlash</a><h2>Hezbollah slams ceasefire violation</h2>Hezbollah reacted sharply to Sunday's events. The group said Israel's actions amounted to a "blatant violation" of the ceasefire and insisted it had respected the truce until now."Hezbollah reiterates that what the enemy has done is a blatant violation of the ceasefire to which it has adhered until now," the group said, adding that it was monitoring developments and reserved the right to defend Lebanon and its people.Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a key Hezbollah ally, criticised the framework signed by Lebanon and Israel under US sponsorship, which aims to end hostilities and create conditions for a broader peace settlement. He argued that it failed to protect Lebanon's interests. Calling it "ten times worse" than the short-lived 1983 agreement between Lebanon and Israel, Berri vowed to oppose the deal politically and warned against any attempt to impose it.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US-backed Israel-Lebanon peace framework is facing its first major test after Israel said it destroyed a large Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and warn that it reserves the right to respond.

The Israeli military said on Sunday (Jun 28) that it had destroyed a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon, triggering fresh tensions with Hezbollah just two days after Israel and Lebanon signed a US-backed framework agreement intended to pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and warned that it reserved the "right to defend its homeland and its people". The developments have cast fresh doubt over the future of the deal, which seeks not only to end decades of hostility between the two countries but also to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. According to Lebanese state media, several Israeli strikes were reported across southern Lebanon on Sunday, including in the Nabatieh area. Lebanon's health ministry said two people were wounded after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south. Also read | 'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes Massive tunnel destroyed In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had uncovered and destroyed an extensive Hezbollah tunnel network. "The tunnel, stretching more than 200 metres and reaching a depth of over 25 metres, contained hundreds of weapons as well as several launch shafts intended to target the State of Israel and its civilians," the statement said.

The US-backed Israel-Lebanon peace framework is facing its first major test after Israel said it destroyed a large Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and warn that it reserves the right to respond.

Israel blows up major Hezbollah tunnel packed with weapons; group says it reserves 'right to defend'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced heckling on camera during his speech at the IDF's Bahad 1's combat officer graduation ceremony, near Mitzpe Ramon on Thursday. As Netanyahu reflected on his military service and the loss of a friend in combat, a voice from the audience shouted, "Go home!"Netanyahu was defending the government's record, saying that“Only a blind man would say there are no achievements.” He claimed that operations including “Kalavi” and “Roar of the Lion” were major accomplishments, further adding that there were “more missions to perform” against Iran and Hamas."There were years when I heard the conversation, I heard veteran officers turn to new ones and ask them, ' Has anyone been in a collision under fire? But in recent years, these questions have hardly been asked. You arrived at Bahad 1 equipped with operational experience that you acquired in the War of Rebirth. Sometimes it is a painful experience. Before I came here, I was a fighter, and I lost a dear friend," said Netanyahu, when one voice shouted “Go Home” while a supporter shouted, “Go Bibi!"

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&#39;Go home!&#39; - Netanyahu heckled during combat officer graduation address Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was recalling his military service and the loss of a friend in combat when someone in the audience shouted, &quot;Go home!&quot; Netanyahu continued his speech, turning to… <a href="https://t.co/nZGoeg2xu8">pic.twitter.com/nZGoeg2xu8</a>&mdash; Viory Video (@vioryvideo) <a href="https://x.com/vioryvideo/status/2070431416039420376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asian-stock-market-crash-ai-selloff-1782462457862">Asian stock market bloodbath: Sell-off wipes out billions across Kospi, Nikkei and Hang Seng</a>The incident took place in front of senior security figures such as Defence Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. This follows a pattern of public heckling with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. At an official state ceremony at Mount Herzl, Netanyahu was claiming that Israel had returned its hostages, when one heckler shouted, “Some of them died in the tunnel”.Netanyahu has domestically faced backlash following the signing of the US-Iran MoU. Opposition leader Avigdor Liberman accused the Netanyahu government of pushing Israel towards a “civil war”. In a social media post, he said, “The government is dragging the State of Israel into a civil war - just to cling to power for a few more days.” Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also spoke at the ceremony. He said that Israel will maintain its forces in the buffer zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza.&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu was heckled with shouts of "Go home!" during an IDF graduation ceremony as he defended Israel's military operations and vowed more missions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced heckling on camera during his speech at the IDF's Bahad 1's combat officer graduation ceremony, near Mitzpe Ramon on Thursday. As Netanyahu reflected on his military service and the loss of a friend in combat, a voice from the audience shouted, "Go home!" Netanyahu was defending the government's record, saying that“Only a blind man would say there are no achievements.” He claimed that operations including “Kalavi” and “Roar of the Lion” were major accomplishments, further adding that there were “more missions to perform” against Iran and Hamas. "There were years when I heard the conversation, I heard veteran officers turn to new ones and ask them, ' Has anyone been in a collision under fire? But in recent years, these questions have hardly been asked. You arrived at Bahad 1 equipped with operational experience that you acquired in the War of Rebirth. Sometimes it is a painful experience. Before I came here, I was a fighter, and I lost a dear friend," said Netanyahu, when one voice shouted “Go Home” while a supporter shouted, “Go Bibi!"

Benjamin Netanyahu was heckled with shouts of "Go home!" during an IDF graduation ceremony as he defended Israel's military operations and vowed more missions.

'Go home!': Netanyahu heckled during IDF ceremony as he defends war record

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Jun 21) addressed his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Rejecting the claims suggesting that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions or that he controls the Republican, he insisted that both leaders independently make decisions in the interest of their nations. This comes amid speculations about whether they influence each other’s decisions over the Iran war.Speaking at the JNS Summit in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said, “In the United States, they say that President Trump does everything that I ask him to do. And in Israel, they say that I do everything he wants me to do. Well, neither is true.”“We’re leaders of independent and proud countries. We stand for our interests. I stand for the interests of Israel and for its security,” he added.The Israeli leader acknowledged that while Trump and he have the same view on most issues, they sometimes have disagreements. Despite this, they respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership, he stressed.“Often we see eye to eye. Sometimes we don’t. But we respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership and commitment to our people,” he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-will-be-main-topic-of-discussion-tehran-says-ahead-of-us-iran-talks-in-switzerland-1782034242381">‘Lebanon will be main topic of discussion’: Tehran says ahead of US-Iran talks in Switzerland</a><h2>Troops in Lebanon to remain ‘as long as necessary’</h2>Speaking about the conflict in Lebanon, Netanyahu said that Israeli troops will stay in southern Lebanon as long as needed, despite the ceasefire reached under the US-Iran deal. He also vowed that he would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.“We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel... Nothing will alter that commitment,” he said.He continued, “And with regard to Iran: whatever political developments may unfold, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I serve as prime minister of Israel, that will not happen.”Watch | US-Iran Peace Talks: US Vice President On His Connection With India &amp; Pakistan<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed</a>Netanyahu also reiterated that the war in the Middle East had achieved Israel’s key goal of preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon.“We prevented Iran from carrying out a plan to annihilate us and today they would have had an atomic bomb to do so,” the Israeli leader said. “We prevented that from happening. We removed the existential danger. Had we not acted... Iran would have had atomic bombs and let me tell you something, they would have used them.”“That’s what we prevented,” he said.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected claims that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions, saying both leaders act independently. He also vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and keep troops in Lebanon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Jun 21) addressed his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Rejecting the claims suggesting that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions or that he controls the Republican, he insisted that both leaders independently make decisions in the interest of their nations. This comes amid speculations about whether they influence each other’s decisions over the Iran war. Speaking at the JNS Summit in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said, “In the United States, they say that President Trump does everything that I ask him to do. And in Israel, they say that I do everything he wants me to do. Well, neither is true.” “We’re leaders of independent and proud countries. We stand for our interests. I stand for the interests of Israel and for its security,” he added. The Israeli leader acknowledged that while Trump and he have the same view on most issues, they sometimes have disagreements. Despite this, they respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership, he stressed. “Often we see eye to eye. Sometimes we don’t. But we respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership and commitment to our people,” he said. Also read | ‘Lebanon will be main topic of discussion’: Tehran says ahead of US-Iran talks in Switzerland Troops in Lebanon to remain ‘as long as necessary’ Speaking about the conflict in Lebanon, Netanyahu said that Israeli troops will stay in southern Lebanon as long as needed, despite the ceasefire reached under the US-Iran deal. He also vowed that he would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. “We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel... Nothing will alter that commitment,” he said. He continued, “And with regard to Iran: whatever political developments may unfold, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I serve as prime minister of Israel, that will not happen.” Watch | US-Iran Peace Talks: US Vice President On His Connection With India & Pakistan https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed Netanyahu also reiterated that the war in the Middle East had achieved Israel’s key goal of preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon. “We prevented Iran from carrying out a plan to annihilate us and today they would have had an atomic bomb to do so,” the Israeli leader said. “We prevented that from happening. We removed the existential danger. Had we not acted... Iran would have had atomic bombs and let me tell you something, they would have used them.” “That’s what we prevented,” he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected claims that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions, saying both leaders act independently. He also vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and keep troops in Lebanon.

‘I stand for interests of Israel’: Netanyahu rejects claims Trump influences his decisions amid Iran war

A poll by Israeli channel 12 shows that only 11 per cent of people believe that Israel won the war with Iran, and only 13 per cent consider that US President Donald Trump will look after Israeli interests in an agreement with Iran. It suggests that only 24 per cent of Israelis believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct helped Israel in the US-Iran negotiations.&nbsp;According to Channel 12, 52 per cent of Israelis feel that Netanyahu's conduct has not helped Israel in the US-Iran negotiations, and while 24 per cent of Israelis say it helped, and 24 per cent said they did not know. Around 43 per cent of Israelis believe that Israel lost the war, and around 41 per cent felt it remained inconclusive. Around 71 per cent did not trust President Trump to look out for Israeli interests in the agreement, a stark decrease from 62 per cent last week.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-best-strike-workers-demands-bus-services-disruption-explained-1781853776979">Mumbai BEST strike: Key demands of workers and impact on daily commuters</a>The poll follows the growing rift between the US and Israeli leadership, which launched a joint offensive on Iran on February 28. The poll is a stark departure from the robust support enjoyed by the US President Donald Trump from Israeli. The relationship has soured with the US, completely excluding Israeli leadership from the peace negotiations with Iran and Israel disregarding its ally by continuing disproportionate attacks on Lebanon. US President Donald Trump has openly criticised, saying Israel needs to be "more responsible with respect to Lebanon", and recently, in a phone call, US President Donald Trump used curse words for Netanyahu and called him “crazy” for attacking Lebanon, which were targeted to derail the peace talks in Lebanon.&nbsp;These questions were part of a survey where Israelis were asked who they would vote for if the elections of October were to be held now. The poll said that the Zionist opposition parties would win more seats compared to the Netanyahu-led bloc of right-wing and religious parties, but might fall short of the 61-seat majority needed for the government. Despite the public criticism of Netanyahu, US President Donald Trump has reportedly said to KAN Broadcaster, “I’ll have to look at who’s running, but I like Bibi very much. I would be most likely to endorse him.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

A Channel 12 poll shows only 11% of Israelis believe Israel won the war with Iran, while most respondents say Benjamin Netanyahu did not help in US-Iran negotiations and distrust Donald Trump to protect Israeli interests.

A poll by Israeli channel 12 shows that only 11 per cent of people believe that Israel won the war with Iran, and only 13 per cent consider that US President Donald Trump will look after Israeli interests in an agreement with Iran. It suggests that only 24 per cent of Israelis believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct helped Israel in the US-Iran negotiations. According to Channel 12, 52 per cent of Israelis feel that Netanyahu's conduct has not helped Israel in the US-Iran negotiations, and while 24 per cent of Israelis say it helped, and 24 per cent said they did not know. Around 43 per cent of Israelis believe that Israel lost the war, and around 41 per cent felt it remained inconclusive. Around 71 per cent did not trust President Trump to look out for Israeli interests in the agreement, a stark decrease from 62 per cent last week. Also Read: Mumbai BEST strike: Key demands of workers and impact on daily commuters The poll follows the growing rift between the US and Israeli leadership, which launched a joint offensive on Iran on February 28. The poll is a stark departure from the robust support enjoyed by the US President Donald Trump from Israeli. The relationship has soured with the US, completely excluding Israeli leadership from the peace negotiations with Iran and Israel disregarding its ally by continuing disproportionate attacks on Lebanon. US President Donald Trump has openly criticised, saying Israel needs to be "more responsible with respect to Lebanon", and recently, in a phone call, US President Donald Trump used curse words for Netanyahu and called him “crazy” for attacking Lebanon, which were targeted to derail the peace talks in Lebanon. These questions were part of a survey where Israelis were asked who they would vote for if the elections of October were to be held now. The poll said that the Zionist opposition parties would win more seats compared to the Netanyahu-led bloc of right-wing and religious parties, but might fall short of the 61-seat majority needed for the government. Despite the public criticism of Netanyahu, US President Donald Trump has reportedly said to KAN Broadcaster, “I’ll have to look at who’s running, but I like Bibi very much. I would be most likely to endorse him.”

A Channel 12 poll shows only 11% of Israelis believe Israel won the war with Iran, while most respondents say Benjamin Netanyahu did not help in US-Iran negotiations and distrust Donald Trump to protect Israeli interests.

Only 11% of Israelis believe Israel won war with Iran and only 13% trust Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday said the joint military campaign carried out by Israel and the United States against Iran had protected Israel from what he described as the threat of “nuclear annihilation”.&nbsp;Speaking at a televised press conference, his first public appearance since Washington and Tehran announced an agreement to end the Middle East war, Netanyahu claimed the military operation had achieved key objectives and significantly weakened Iran’s capabilities.&nbsp;“The most important thing is that we saved the State of Israel from the threat of nuclear annihilation,” Netanyahu said.&nbsp;He asserted that the military campaign had targeted critical infrastructure across Iran and created a strong deterrent against future threats. According to him, the operation had established a “credible military threat” that would support any future understanding reached with Tehran.&nbsp;Netanyahu also made it clear that Israel would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons under any circumstances.&nbsp;“With an agreement or without one, Iran will not have nuclear weapons,” he said.&nbsp;“Not today and not tomorrow,” he added, saying that the joint US and Israeli operation had struck “every possible infrastructure target” in Iran.<h2>Israeli troops to remain in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria</h2>Netanyahu said Israeli forces would continue to stay in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria for as long as the government considered it necessary.&nbsp;“We established deep security zones around the State of Israel. We did this in Gaza, in Lebanon, and in Syria,” Netanyahu said.&nbsp;“And I want to make it clear: we will remain in these security zones for as long as necessary to protect our country.”&nbsp;The remarks came after the United States and Iran reached an agreement aimed at ending the broader regional conflict, including fighting in Lebanon involving Iran-backed Hezbollah militants and Israeli forces.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikh-clergy-declares-punjab-cm-bhagwant-mann-khalsa-panth-virodhi-asks-community-to-shun-ties-1781555782624">Sikh clergy declares Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann ‘Khalsa Panth Virodhi’, asks community to shun ties</a><h2>Netanyahu confirms election plans</h2>Addressing domestic political questions, Netanyahu also announced that he would contest the Israeli elections scheduled later this year.&nbsp;The veteran leader, who has led Israel through years of conflict across multiple fronts and is currently facing a corruption trial, has come under increasing criticism from opposition parties over his handling of the war.&nbsp;Opposition leaders have accused him of failing to achieve several objectives set after Hamas launched its October 2023 attack on Israel.&nbsp;Despite the criticism, Netanyahu said he remained determined to seek another term in office.&nbsp;“I am going to run in the elections and intend to win,” he said.&nbsp;The comments marked Netanyahu’s first detailed public response after the announcement of the US-Iran agreement that seeks to bring an end to the conflict that intensified following US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year.

Netanyahu said Israeli forces would remain in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria for as long as necessary to protect Israel and ensure its security.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday said the joint military campaign carried out by Israel and the United States against Iran had protected Israel from what he described as the threat of “nuclear annihilation”. Speaking at a televised press conference, his first public appearance since Washington and Tehran announced an agreement to end the Middle East war, Netanyahu claimed the military operation had achieved key objectives and significantly weakened Iran’s capabilities. “The most important thing is that we saved the State of Israel from the threat of nuclear annihilation,” Netanyahu said. He asserted that the military campaign had targeted critical infrastructure across Iran and created a strong deterrent against future threats. According to him, the operation had established a “credible military threat” that would support any future understanding reached with Tehran. Netanyahu also made it clear that Israel would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons under any circumstances. “With an agreement or without one, Iran will not have nuclear weapons,” he said. “Not today and not tomorrow,” he added, saying that the joint US and Israeli operation had struck “every possible infrastructure target” in Iran. Israeli troops to remain in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria Netanyahu said Israeli forces would continue to stay in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria for as long as the government considered it necessary. “We established deep security zones around the State of Israel. We did this in Gaza, in Lebanon, and in Syria,” Netanyahu said. “And I want to make it clear: we will remain in these security zones for as long as necessary to protect our country.” The remarks came after the United States and Iran reached an agreement aimed at ending the broader regional conflict, including fighting in Lebanon involving Iran-backed Hezbollah militants and Israeli forces. Also Read: Sikh clergy declares Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann ‘Khalsa Panth Virodhi’, asks community to shun ties Netanyahu confirms election plans Addressing domestic political questions, Netanyahu also announced that he would contest the Israeli elections scheduled later this year. The veteran leader, who has led Israel through years of conflict across multiple fronts and is currently facing a corruption trial, has come under increasing criticism from opposition parties over his handling of the war. Opposition leaders have accused him of failing to achieve several objectives set after Hamas launched its October 2023 attack on Israel. Despite the criticism, Netanyahu said he remained determined to seek another term in office. “I am going to run in the elections and intend to win,” he said. The comments marked Netanyahu’s first detailed public response after the announcement of the US-Iran agreement that seeks to bring an end to the conflict that intensified following US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year.

Netanyahu said Israeli forces would remain in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria for as long as necessary to protect Israel and ensure its security.

‘War saved Israel from nuclear annihilation’: Netanyahu says Israeli forces to stay in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza

Fresh Israeli strikes in Lebanon have cast doubt on efforts to secure a U.S.-backed ceasefire, as tensions once again flare along the Israel-Lebanon border.

The escalation comes after Hezbollah rejected key elements of a proposed truce framework. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged Lebanese citizens to oppose Hezbollah, arguing that the group's actions are dragging Lebanon deeper into conflict.

As diplomatic efforts struggle to gain traction, concerns are mounting that the Israel-Lebanon front could become a major flashpoint in the broader regional crisis.

IDF Strikes On Lebanon Throw Truce Into Doubt, Netanyahu Urges Lebanese To Stand Against Hezbollah 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was caught off guard after US President Donald Trump abruptly announced that he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran and claimed that a broader peace agreement could be finalised within days.According to a report by Axios, Netanyahu was not informed in advance before Trump publicly disclosed the development, which included assertions that Iran's leadership had approved a draft framework agreement aimed at extending a ceasefire and opening negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme. "Netanyahu did not have advanced notice and was caught by surprise when Trump released his initial statement about the deal, according to a source with knowledge," Axios reported.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-s-yoon-gets-30-years-in-prison-for-north-korea-drone-incident-1781249303771">South Korea’s Yoon gets 30 years in prison for North Korea drone incident</a>Trump announced on Thursday, saying he had called off scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran after being informed that discussions had reached the highest levels of the Iranian leadership and received approval."Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have, as President of the United States of America, cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening," Trump wrote on Truth Social.The US president claimed the proposed agreement would extend the current ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch a 60-day negotiating process focused on Iran's nuclear activities. Trump also asserted that Iran would agree never to acquire a nuclear weapon.According to Trump, the framework had been approved "in both concept and great detail" by multiple parties, including the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Egypt.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-asylum-seeker-sentenced-to-10-years-in-jail-for-raping-uk-woman-had-asked-did-you-enjoy-that-1781250098255">Pakistan asylum seeker sentenced to 10 years in jail for raping UK woman</a>He added that the blockade would remain in place until the arrangement was formally completed.However, Iranian officials pushed back against Trump's characterisation of events. Tehran denied that any final agreement had been reached, although it left open the possibility that such a deal could eventually receive approval.Iran's Fars news agency rejected claims that a binding agreement had already been secured. It said discussions were centred on a memorandum of understanding designed to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US blockade.According to the report, any future agreement covering Iran's nuclear programme and the removal of US sanctions would require separate negotiations.

US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled planned military strikes against Iran, announcing a surprise draft peace framework. The move caught Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu completely off guard, while Iran disputed the claim.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was caught off guard after US President Donald Trump abruptly announced that he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran and claimed that a broader peace agreement could be finalised within days. According to a report by Axios, Netanyahu was not informed in advance before Trump publicly disclosed the development, which included assertions that Iran's leadership had approved a draft framework agreement aimed at extending a ceasefire and opening negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme. "Netanyahu did not have advanced notice and was caught by surprise when Trump released his initial statement about the deal, according to a source with knowledge," Axios reported. Also read: South Korea’s Yoon gets 30 years in prison for North Korea drone incident Trump announced on Thursday, saying he had called off scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran after being informed that discussions had reached the highest levels of the Iranian leadership and received approval. "Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have, as President of the United States of America, cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening," Trump wrote on Truth Social. The US president claimed the proposed agreement would extend the current ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch a 60-day negotiating process focused on Iran's nuclear activities. Trump also asserted that Iran would agree never to acquire a nuclear weapon. According to Trump, the framework had been approved "in both concept and great detail" by multiple parties, including the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Egypt. Also read: Pakistan asylum seeker sentenced to 10 years in jail for raping UK woman He added that the blockade would remain in place until the arrangement was formally completed. However, Iranian officials pushed back against Trump's characterisation of events. Tehran denied that any final agreement had been reached, although it left open the possibility that such a deal could eventually receive approval. Iran's Fars news agency rejected claims that a binding agreement had already been secured. It said discussions were centred on a memorandum of understanding designed to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US blockade. According to the report, any future agreement covering Iran's nuclear programme and the removal of US sanctions would require separate negotiations.

US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled planned military strikes against Iran, announcing a surprise draft peace framework. The move caught Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu completely off guard, while Iran disputed the claim.

Did Trump leave Netanyahu in the dark? Report claims Israeli PM was blindsided by Iran deal news

The U.S.-Israel alliance is currently strained as President Donald Trump openly questions Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s viability in upcoming elections, while Israeli voters increasingly doubt Trump's commitment to Israel's core security in his push for a peace deal with Iran.


Trump Doubts if Netanyahu Can Get Elected; Israelis Doubt Trump's Commitment to Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu will seek re-election this year, his party announced on Wednesday, after U.S. President Donald Trump said ​he wasn't sure if the Israeli prime minister would stand again.
In a brief statement, ‌Netanyahu's Likud Party said he would run in the election and, God willing, he would win. The election has not yet been formally announced but must be held by October.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Party Announces His Candidacy for Upcoming Polls

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to seek re-election, Likud confirmed on Wednesday. It came in response to a poll which showed 60 per cent of Israelis do not want Israel's longest serving Prime Minister to seek another term. US President Donald Trump, who is supposedly having a “lovers' spat” with Netanyahu and Israel, has also cast doubt on his re-election. Netanyahu has held power almost uninterrupted since 2009, and has not indicated that he won't seek re-election."Prime Minister Netanyahu will run in the next elections and, God Willing, he will win," the Likud party announced on Telegram.“I don’t know, he’s had an amazing career,” Trump said in an interview with ABC News, “Does he want to continue? Because, you know, he’s a wartime prime minister. We will very shortly win the war one way or the other, and you know he’s a wartime prime minister.”Israel is going on poll within this October, and almost all the polls in Israel show Netanyahu's Likud and the bloc of right-wing and religious parties that support him failing to win a majority. However, the polls in Israel are not reliable. While some surveys have projected a slim majority for the diverse bloc of Zionist parties opposed to him.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-testify-congress-jeffrey-epstein-investigation-1781094817201">Bill Gates faces Congress: What he may reveal about Jeffrey Epstein under oath</a>Netanyahu's term has been embroiled by controversy, his corruption scandal, takeover of the judiciary and even his handling of the situation in Gaza, while a clear majority of the Israeli public holds Benjamin Netanyahu primarily responsible for the security failures of October 7. Further, his insistence on not allowing an enquiry commission until the conflict is over complicates the matter. Declassified documents and testimonies show that the political echelon received generic warnings about Hamas's long-term invasion plans (such as the "Jericho Walls" blueprint) as early as 2018.&nbsp;Trump's remarks followed a moment of tense exchanges between the two leaders where he berated Netanyahu, calling him that everybody “hates Israel” and Netanyahu would be “in prison” if it wasn't for Trump. Israel engages in war on all fronts with Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Israel's Likud party confirmed Benjamin Netanyahu will seek re-election despite polls showing most Israelis oppose another term. Donald Trump has also cast doubt on Netanyahu's political future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to seek re-election, Likud confirmed on Wednesday. It came in response to a poll which showed 60 per cent of Israelis do not want Israel's longest serving Prime Minister to seek another term. US President Donald Trump, who is supposedly having a “lovers' spat” with Netanyahu and Israel, has also cast doubt on his re-election. Netanyahu has held power almost uninterrupted since 2009, and has not indicated that he won't seek re-election. "Prime Minister Netanyahu will run in the next elections and, God Willing, he will win," the Likud party announced on Telegram. “I don’t know, he’s had an amazing career,” Trump said in an interview with ABC News, “Does he want to continue? Because, you know, he’s a wartime prime minister. We will very shortly win the war one way or the other, and you know he’s a wartime prime minister.” Israel is going on poll within this October, and almost all the polls in Israel show Netanyahu's Likud and the bloc of right-wing and religious parties that support him failing to win a majority. However, the polls in Israel are not reliable. While some surveys have projected a slim majority for the diverse bloc of Zionist parties opposed to him. Also Read: Bill Gates faces Congress: What he may reveal about Jeffrey Epstein under oath Netanyahu's term has been embroiled by controversy, his corruption scandal, takeover of the judiciary and even his handling of the situation in Gaza, while a clear majority of the Israeli public holds Benjamin Netanyahu primarily responsible for the security failures of October 7. Further, his insistence on not allowing an enquiry commission until the conflict is over complicates the matter. Declassified documents and testimonies show that the political echelon received generic warnings about Hamas's long-term invasion plans (such as the "Jericho Walls" blueprint) as early as 2018. Trump's remarks followed a moment of tense exchanges between the two leaders where he berated Netanyahu, calling him that everybody “hates Israel” and Netanyahu would be “in prison” if it wasn't for Trump. Israel engages in war on all fronts with Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.

Israel's Likud party confirmed Benjamin Netanyahu will seek re-election despite polls showing most Israelis oppose another term. Donald Trump has also cast doubt on Netanyahu's political future.

Likud confirms Netanyahu re-election bid after Trump casts doubt on future

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid tensions over the fragile Iran-Israel ceasefire. Trump revealed that he cautioned Netanyahu against further military escalation, warning that Israel could find itself "on its own" if the conflict reignites. At the same time, Trump claimed negotiations with Iran are in the "final throes" and that a broader peace agreement could be reached within days. The remarks come as diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent a return to full-scale conflict in the Middle East.

Trump Warns Netanyahu On Iran: 'You Better Be Careful

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel’s strikes on Iran had deterred the Islamic republic from launching further attacks, leading to a cessation of hostilities between the two adversaries. He further said that Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever, while Israel is stronger than ever.&nbsp;“At this moment, the fire on that front is contained. After we struck the terror regime in Tehran, it stopped attacking us,” Netanyahu said in a televised statement.However, he warned that should Iran “make the mistake of resuming attacks against us, we will respond with full force”.&nbsp;<h2>‘Israel will continue to respond to any attacks on its territory’</h2>&nbsp;In his first public remarks since renewed fighting against Iran erupted last night, Prime Minister Netanyahu said he will halt attacks on Iran “for now,” while stressing that the fight against both Tehran and Hezbollah is “not over” and that Israel will continue to respond to any attacks on its territory.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-sanctions-irgc-navy-unit-2-iranians-over-crippling-strait-of-hormuz-blockade-1780933198425">EU sanctions IRGC Navy unit, 2 Iranians over crippling Strait of Hormuz blockade</a>&nbsp;“After Iran attacked Israel” in support of Hezbollah following Israel’s retaliatory strikes on the group in Beirut, “I directed the IDF to strike military and economic targets throughout Iran,” Netanyahu said in a Hebrew-language video statement.&nbsp;“At present, the fire on this front has been halted, because after the terrorist regime in Tehran was struck, it stopped attacking us,” Netanyahu said, while warning that “if that terrorist regime makes the mistake of attacking us again, we will respond with force.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-announces-end-of-military-operations-against-israel-warns-harsher-action-if-lebanon-attacked-again-1780925146328">Iran announces end of military operations against Israel, warns ‘harsher’ action if Lebanon attacked again</a><h2>‘Today, Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;“Today, Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever, and we are stronger than ever. But our struggle against them is not yet over,” the PM said.&nbsp;He added that the military will continue to operate in southern Lebanon to “destroy all of [Hezbollah’s] terrorist infrastructure in the security zone, including massive underground facilities in the Beaufort Ridge.”“Over the past day, Iran and Hezbollah tried to impose a new equation on us. That equation is intolerable and completely unacceptable to me. They thought they could launch attacks from Lebanon and Iran against Israel and that we would not act. That did not happen, and it will not happen. Not on my watch,” Netanyahu warned.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-crisis-deepens-20-mps-write-to-lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-want-to-ally-with-nda-1780919350352">TMC crisis deepens: 20 MPs write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, ‘want to ally with NDA’</a>&nbsp;Netanyahu indicated that he relayed this message to US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly pressed Israel in recent days to de-escalate in order to preserve ongoing US-Iran negotiations on a deal.“Israel has every right to self-defence, and we will exercise that right whenever necessary. I say this to you, dear citizens of Israel, just as I say it in my good conversations with my friend President Trump,” Netanyahu said.&nbsp;The PM did not take questions from the press. He has not held a press conference for Israeli journalists in about three months, but has given several interviews to foreign media outlets over the same period.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the military will continue to operate in southern Lebanon to destroy all of [Hezbollah’s] terrorist infrastructure in the security zone, including massive underground facilities in the Beaufort Ridge.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel’s strikes on Iran had deterred the Islamic republic from launching further attacks, leading to a cessation of hostilities between the two adversaries. He further said that Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever, while Israel is stronger than ever. “At this moment, the fire on that front is contained. After we struck the terror regime in Tehran, it stopped attacking us,” Netanyahu said in a televised statement. However, he warned that should Iran “make the mistake of resuming attacks against us, we will respond with full force”. ‘Israel will continue to respond to any attacks on its territory’ In his first public remarks since renewed fighting against Iran erupted last night, Prime Minister Netanyahu said he will halt attacks on Iran “for now,” while stressing that the fight against both Tehran and Hezbollah is “not over” and that Israel will continue to respond to any attacks on its territory. Also Read: EU sanctions IRGC Navy unit, 2 Iranians over crippling Strait of Hormuz blockade “After Iran attacked Israel” in support of Hezbollah following Israel’s retaliatory strikes on the group in Beirut, “I directed the IDF to strike military and economic targets throughout Iran,” Netanyahu said in a Hebrew-language video statement. “At present, the fire on this front has been halted, because after the terrorist regime in Tehran was struck, it stopped attacking us,” Netanyahu said, while warning that “if that terrorist regime makes the mistake of attacking us again, we will respond with force.” Also Read: Iran announces end of military operations against Israel, warns ‘harsher’ action if Lebanon attacked again ‘Today, Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever’ “Today, Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever, and we are stronger than ever. But our struggle against them is not yet over,” the PM said. He added that the military will continue to operate in southern Lebanon to “destroy all of [Hezbollah’s] terrorist infrastructure in the security zone, including massive underground facilities in the Beaufort Ridge.” “Over the past day, Iran and Hezbollah tried to impose a new equation on us. That equation is intolerable and completely unacceptable to me. They thought they could launch attacks from Lebanon and Iran against Israel and that we would not act. That did not happen, and it will not happen. Not on my watch,” Netanyahu warned. Also Read: TMC crisis deepens: 20 MPs write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, ‘want to ally with NDA’ Netanyahu indicated that he relayed this message to US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly pressed Israel in recent days to de-escalate in order to preserve ongoing US-Iran negotiations on a deal. “Israel has every right to self-defence, and we will exercise that right whenever necessary. I say this to you, dear citizens of Israel, just as I say it in my good conversations with my friend President Trump,” Netanyahu said. The PM did not take questions from the press. He has not held a press conference for Israeli journalists in about three months, but has given several interviews to foreign media outlets over the same period.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the military will continue to operate in southern Lebanon to destroy all of [Hezbollah’s] terrorist infrastructure in the security zone, including massive underground facilities in the Beaufort Ridge.

Israeli strikes made Iran stop attacks, fight against Tehran, Hezbollah ‘not over’: Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that countries reliant on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are already developing alternative supply routes as disruption to the strategic waterway continues amid the conflict with Iran.&nbsp;Netanyahu told CNBC in an interview that the impact of reduced traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could be eased through alternative channels. “That’s what’s happening now. Not, it’s going to happen, it’s already happening now,” the Israeli PM said.&nbsp;Roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict began. Iran blocked the strait and triggered a supplies disruption, leading to higher fuel and energy prices across the world in a bid to build pressure for stopping strikes against it and its allies, like Hezbollah in Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-longer-conducting-sustained-strikes-in-iran-because-epic-fury-is-over-rubio-1780511095074">‘No longer conducting sustained strikes in Iran, because Epic Fury is over’: Rubio</a><h2>‘Reverse blockade a stroke of genius, highly effective’: Netanyahu</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Israeli leader also praised US President Donald Trump for what he described as a “reverse blockade” targeting Iranian ports linked to the Strait of Hormuz. Calling the move “highly effective”, Netanyahu said it had been “a stroke of genius”.&nbsp;Netanyahu further revealed that he speaks with Trump “once every two days”, and said that the two leaders “have common goals ... we want to achieve them”.&nbsp;When questioned about the endgame for the conflict, Netanyahu said it remained “an open question on how the war should end”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-respects-me-and-i-respect-him-says-netanyahu-after-f-ing-crazy-phone-call-rebuke-1780502823440">Trump ‘respects’ me, and I ‘respect’ him, says Netanyahu after ‘f***ing crazy’ phone call rebuke</a>&nbsp;Netanyahu also described Trump as the “greatest friend to Israel”, citing a series of pro-Israel measures taken during Trump’s first term, including recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and brokering normalisation agreements between Israel and several Arab states.&nbsp;<h2>Ghalibaf vows ‘decisive’ response to any attack</h2>&nbsp;Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that Tehran would meet any attack with a strong response, local media reported Wednesday, after its Revolutionary Guards said they had targeted Kuwait in retaliation for US strikes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-central-bank-says-inflation-at-world-war-ii-levels-eco-pain-deepening-for-iranians-1780432873791">Iran’s central bank says inflation at World War II levels; eco pain deepening for Iranians</a>&nbsp;“Today, the Iranian nation, in its battle with America and the Zionist regime, showed that the era of free-of-charge Iran threats is over and that any aggression will be met with a decisive, regrettable, and proportionate response,” Ghalibaf said, according to local news agency ISNA.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised US President Donald Trump for the reverse blockade targeting Iranian ports linked to the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu called the US naval blockade highly effective and a stroke of genius.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that countries reliant on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are already developing alternative supply routes as disruption to the strategic waterway continues amid the conflict with Iran. Netanyahu told CNBC in an interview that the impact of reduced traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could be eased through alternative channels. “That’s what’s happening now. Not, it’s going to happen, it’s already happening now,” the Israeli PM said. Roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict began. Iran blocked the strait and triggered a supplies disruption, leading to higher fuel and energy prices across the world in a bid to build pressure for stopping strikes against it and its allies, like Hezbollah in Lebanon. Also Read: ‘No longer conducting sustained strikes in Iran, because Epic Fury is over’: Rubio ‘Reverse blockade a stroke of genius, highly effective’: Netanyahu The Israeli leader also praised US President Donald Trump for what he described as a “reverse blockade” targeting Iranian ports linked to the Strait of Hormuz. Calling the move “highly effective”, Netanyahu said it had been “a stroke of genius”. Netanyahu further revealed that he speaks with Trump “once every two days”, and said that the two leaders “have common goals ... we want to achieve them”. When questioned about the endgame for the conflict, Netanyahu said it remained “an open question on how the war should end”. Also Read: Trump ‘respects’ me, and I ‘respect’ him, says Netanyahu after ‘f***ing crazy’ phone call rebuke Netanyahu also described Trump as the “greatest friend to Israel”, citing a series of pro-Israel measures taken during Trump’s first term, including recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and brokering normalisation agreements between Israel and several Arab states. Ghalibaf vows ‘decisive’ response to any attack Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that Tehran would meet any attack with a strong response, local media reported Wednesday, after its Revolutionary Guards said they had targeted Kuwait in retaliation for US strikes. Also Read: Iran’s central bank says inflation at World War II levels; eco pain deepening for Iranians “Today, the Iranian nation, in its battle with America and the Zionist regime, showed that the era of free-of-charge Iran threats is over and that any aggression will be met with a decisive, regrettable, and proportionate response,” Ghalibaf said, according to local news agency ISNA.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised US President Donald Trump for the reverse blockade targeting Iranian ports linked to the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu called the US naval blockade highly effective and a stroke of genius.

‘Nations reliant on oil imports via Hormuz already finding alternatives to strait,’ says Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview on Wednesday, did not deny having a difficult conversation with President Donald Trump during a phone call on Monday but downplayed the significance of the matter. In an interview with CNBC, Netanyahu dismissed Trump calling him “f***ing crazy” during a heated telephone conversation earlier in the week as the kind of “tactical disagreements” typical of even “the best of families.”&nbsp;“I’m not going to get into details of our conversations. We’ve had thousands, well, a lot of them,” he said.&nbsp;“Sometimes, as in the best of families, we have these tactical disagreements. We always find a way to work them out. We can disagree in the morning, and we have a common action by the afternoon,” the Israeli leader said.“My relationship with Trump is the same. He respects me, and I respect him. We always find a way to work out our differences,” Netanyahu said.&nbsp;The Israeli PM did not back diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran but said Trump believed he could “solve the enrichment problem” – referring to Iran’s nuclear programme – “with diplomatic pressure and tough negotiations. I think he should be given a chance.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-central-bank-says-inflation-at-world-war-ii-levels-eco-pain-deepening-for-iranians-1780432873791">Iran’s central bank says inflation at World War II levels; eco pain deepening for Iranians</a><h2>‘We have to disarm Hezbollah and demilitarise Lebanon’</h2>&nbsp;Netanyahu, however, did not back down on his country’s plans to ensure that Iranian-backed Hezbollah no longer poses a threat to his country.&nbsp;“If we want to save Lebanon, if we want to get a Lebanese-Israeli peace – as I do – we have to disarm Hezbollah and we have to demilitarise Lebanon. This is a goal Trump and I share,” he said.&nbsp;“You can’t have these genocidal terrorists taking over this poor country of Lebanon, using it to try to invade Israel — the way that Hamas invaded us, murder our civilians, kill our men, rape our women. No country would accept that.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mosque-built-illegally-by-pakistanis-in-japan-inaugurated-by-envoy-faces-demolition-1780425871272">Mosque built illegally by Pakistanis in Japan, inaugurated by envoy, faces demolition</a>&nbsp;Lebanese and Israeli officials were set to meet for another round of direct talks in Washington on Wednesday, aimed at bolstering a US-brokered ceasefire they agreed to weeks ago but which both accused each other of violating daily.<h2>Trump confirms he called Netanyahu ‘f***ing crazy’</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, President Trump confirmed that he called Netanyahu “f***ing crazy”, saying he was “perturbed” by Israel’s actions in LebanonIn an interview for a New York Post podcast released Wednesday, President Trump confirmed an earlier Axios report that he had criticised Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as “f***ing crazy” in a Monday phone call, saying he was “a little bit perturbed” that Israel’s fighting of Hezbollah in Lebanon was holding back peace talks with Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-picks-loyalist-bill-pulte-as-acting-director-of-national-intelligence-to-replace-tulsi-gabbard-1780410910956">Trump picks loyalist Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence to replace Tulsi Gabbard</a>&nbsp;“We’ve worked very well together. I like Bibi a lot. And I work very well with him,”. Trump told the Post’s ‘Pod Force One’, using a common nickname for the Israeli leader.“I’m a wartime president,” Trump said. “He’s a wartime prime minister.”

PM  Benjamin Netanyahu did not fully back diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran but said President Donald Trump believes that he could solve the enrichment problem—referring to Iran’s nuclear programme—“with diplomatic pressure and tough negotiations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview on Wednesday, did not deny having a difficult conversation with President Donald Trump during a phone call on Monday but downplayed the significance of the matter. In an interview with CNBC, Netanyahu dismissed Trump calling him “f***ing crazy” during a heated telephone conversation earlier in the week as the kind of “tactical disagreements” typical of even “the best of families.” “I’m not going to get into details of our conversations. We’ve had thousands, well, a lot of them,” he said. “Sometimes, as in the best of families, we have these tactical disagreements. We always find a way to work them out. We can disagree in the morning, and we have a common action by the afternoon,” the Israeli leader said. “My relationship with Trump is the same. He respects me, and I respect him. We always find a way to work out our differences,” Netanyahu said. The Israeli PM did not back diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran but said Trump believed he could “solve the enrichment problem” – referring to Iran’s nuclear programme – “with diplomatic pressure and tough negotiations. I think he should be given a chance.” Also Read: Iran’s central bank says inflation at World War II levels; eco pain deepening for Iranians ‘We have to disarm Hezbollah and demilitarise Lebanon’ Netanyahu, however, did not back down on his country’s plans to ensure that Iranian-backed Hezbollah no longer poses a threat to his country. “If we want to save Lebanon, if we want to get a Lebanese-Israeli peace – as I do – we have to disarm Hezbollah and we have to demilitarise Lebanon. This is a goal Trump and I share,” he said. “You can’t have these genocidal terrorists taking over this poor country of Lebanon, using it to try to invade Israel — the way that Hamas invaded us, murder our civilians, kill our men, rape our women. No country would accept that.” Also Read: Mosque built illegally by Pakistanis in Japan, inaugurated by envoy, faces demolition Lebanese and Israeli officials were set to meet for another round of direct talks in Washington on Wednesday, aimed at bolstering a US-brokered ceasefire they agreed to weeks ago but which both accused each other of violating daily. Trump confirms he called Netanyahu ‘f***ing crazy’ Meanwhile, President Trump confirmed that he called Netanyahu “f***ing crazy”, saying he was “perturbed” by Israel’s actions in Lebanon In an interview for a New York Post podcast released Wednesday, President Trump confirmed an earlier Axios report that he had criticised Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as “f***ing crazy” in a Monday phone call, saying he was “a little bit perturbed” that Israel’s fighting of Hezbollah in Lebanon was holding back peace talks with Iran. Also Read: Trump picks loyalist Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence to replace Tulsi Gabbard “We’ve worked very well together. I like Bibi a lot. And I work very well with him,”. Trump told the Post’s ‘Pod Force One’, using a common nickname for the Israeli leader. “I’m a wartime president,” Trump said. “He’s a wartime prime minister.”

PM &nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu did not fully back diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran but said President Donald Trump believes that he could solve the enrichment problem—referring to Iran’s nuclear programme—“with diplomatic pressure and tough negotiations.

Trump ‘respects’ me, and I ‘respect’ him, says Netanyahu after ‘f***ing crazy’ phone call rebuke

Donald Trump Reportedly Lashed Out at Israel PM Netanyahu During an Expletive-laden Call, After Which Netanyahu Called Off the Lebanon Raid.
Is This a Sign of Things to Come?

Israel PM Abused by Trump, Hated by World? Fickle Fate Taunts Netanyahu!

Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues despite a nominal ceasefire, with fresh strikes and evacuation orders heightening tensions. Israel has urged residents to leave parts of Nabatiyeh in southern Lebanon, while reports suggest U.S. President Donald Trump expressed anger over the latest escalation. The developments have raised concerns about the risk of a wider regional conflict.

Israel Orders Nabatiyeh Evacuation As Trump Reportedly Blasts Netanyahu Over Lebanon Escalation

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 1) claimed that Israel and Hezbollah had agreed to halt hostilities, while also suggesting that negotiations with Iran were once again moving forward after appearing to stall over Israel's military campaign in Lebanon. The announcement came after Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf insisted that US-Iranian truce talks would continue if Israel's attacks on Lebanon stop.<h2>Trump touts 'very productive' call with Netanyahu, reports suggest he called Israeli PM 'fucking crazy'</h2>Trump said he had held what he described as a "very productive" phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and had also communicated with Hezbollah through unnamed intermediaries.According to Trump, Israel agreed not to proceed with a planned military operation in Beirut, while Hezbollah committed to ending attacks on Israel. "Hezbollah agreed to stop shooting at Israel, and its soldiers. Likewise, Israel agreed to stop shooting at them," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. "Let's see how long that lasts. Hopefully it will be for ETERNITY!"

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-intercepts-lebanon-projectiles-hours-after-trump-s-f-ing-crazy-call-with-netanyahu-israel-lebanon-war-iran-war-truce-1780360547603">Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu</a>The US president later added that talks with Iran were continuing "at a rapid pace", signalling optimism that diplomacy could regain momentum despite recent setbacks.However, developments on the ground quickly cast uncertainty over Trump's claims. Hours after the announcement, the Israeli military said it had intercepted two projectiles fired from Lebanon into northern Israel. No injuries were reported, but the incident highlighted the fragile nature of any potential ceasefire.An Axios report meanwhile suggests that Trump privately expressed frustration with Netanyahu over Israel's actions in Lebanon. "You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this," reportedly said a "pissed" Trump. At one point in the call, he even yelled at Netanyahu: "What the fuck are you doing?" he said, according to the report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-more-than-capable-of-restarting-war-with-iran-hegseth-amid-reports-of-depleted-missile-stockpiles-shangri-la-dialogue-security-summit-singapore-1780106328135">US 'more than capable' of restarting war with Iran, says Hegseth amid reports of depleted missile stockpiles</a><h2>Netanyahu insists Israel will continue striking Lebanon if...</h2>Questions also emerged over whether Netanyahu had fully signed on to the arrangement outlined by Trump. In a statement released after the call, the Israeli prime minister said he had informed Trump that Israel would continue striking targets in Beirut if Hezbollah attacks did not stop."I spoke this evening with President Trump and told him that if Hezbollah does not cease attacking our towns and our citizens, Israel will strike terrorist targets in Beirut," Netanyahu said, according to a statement released by his office.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Donald Trump says Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to halt hostilities and that Iran talks are back on track. But within hours, projectiles were launched from Lebanon, and Benjamin Netanyahu signalled Israel could still strike Beirut under certain conditions. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 1) claimed that Israel and Hezbollah had agreed to halt hostilities, while also suggesting that negotiations with Iran were once again moving forward after appearing to stall over Israel's military campaign in Lebanon. The announcement came after Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf insisted that US-Iranian truce talks would continue if Israel's attacks on Lebanon stop. Trump touts 'very productive' call with Netanyahu, reports suggest he called Israeli PM 'fucking crazy' Trump said he had held what he described as a "very productive" phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and had also communicated with Hezbollah through unnamed intermediaries. According to Trump, Israel agreed not to proceed with a planned military operation in Beirut, while Hezbollah committed to ending attacks on Israel. "Hezbollah agreed to stop shooting at Israel, and its soldiers. Likewise, Israel agreed to stop shooting at them," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. "Let's see how long that lasts. Hopefully it will be for ETERNITY!"

Donald Trump says Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to halt hostilities and that Iran talks are back on track. But within hours, projectiles were launched from Lebanon, and Benjamin Netanyahu signalled Israel could still strike Beirut under certain conditions. All you need to know.

'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting, but fresh projectiles from Lebanon raise doubts

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 2) said it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon. The incident raises fresh questions about the durability of efforts to calm tensions along Israel's northern border, just hours after US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the fighting would soon come to an end. This comes as Trump, in what is being described as an "expletive-laden" call on Monday, told Netanyahu that his threats to bomb Beirut could isolate Israel further. "You're fucking crazy... I'm saving your ass," the POTUS told his Israeli counterpart, according to an Axios report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-more-than-capable-of-restarting-war-with-iran-hegseth-amid-reports-of-depleted-missile-stockpiles-shangri-la-dialogue-security-summit-singapore-1780106328135">US 'more than capable' of restarting war with Iran, says Hegseth amid reports of depleted missile stockpiles</a><h2>Israel intercepts projectiles from Lebanon.</h2>According to the Israeli military, air raid sirens sounded across several communities in northern Israel at around 1:35 a.m. local time. Shortly afterwards, the Israeli Air Force intercepted two projectiles that had crossed into Israeli territory from Lebanon.The military also reported detecting what it described as a "suspicious aerial target" near the border. The object later fell inside Israeli territory. No injuries or damage were reported in either incident.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-s-russia-in-bizarre-plan-asks-bank-employees-to-shoot-down-ukrainian-drones-themselves-1779948348746">Putin's Russia in bizarre plan asks bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves</a><h2>"You're fucking crazy"</h2>The projectile launches come as Netanyahu continues to threaten to bomb the Lebanese capital, even as Iran threatens to abandon negotiations with the US over Israel's actions.As Washington continues to push for de-escalation, Trump and the Israeli PM reportedly took part in a tense phone call. According to multiple US media reports, Trump expressed frustration over Israel's recent military actions in Lebanon, warning that further escalation could undermine diplomatic efforts and deepen Israel's international isolation."You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this," reportedly said a "pissed" Trump. At one point in the call, he even yelled at Netanyahu: "What the fuck are you doing?"The reported exchange followed growing concerns in Washington that continued military operations in Lebanon could derail sensitive negotiations involving Iran. US officials cited by American media outlets said Trump believed Israel had the right to defend itself against attacks but was increasingly concerned about the scale of the response and the risk of a wider regional conflict.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Hours after Donald Trump reportedly lashed out at Benjamin Netanyahu in a heated phone call over threats to bomb Beirut, Israel says it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon, raising fresh doubts about whether efforts to calm the conflict can hold. Scroll down for what happened.

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 2) said it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon. The incident raises fresh questions about the durability of efforts to calm tensions along Israel's northern border, just hours after US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the fighting would soon come to an end. This comes as Trump, in what is being described as an "expletive-laden" call on Monday, told Netanyahu that his threats to bomb Beirut could isolate Israel further. "You're fucking crazy... I'm saving your ass," the POTUS told his Israeli counterpart, according to an Axios report. Also read | US 'more than capable' of restarting war with Iran, says Hegseth amid reports of depleted missile stockpiles Israel intercepts projectiles from Lebanon. According to the Israeli military, air raid sirens sounded across several communities in northern Israel at around 1:35 a.m. local time. Shortly afterwards, the Israeli Air Force intercepted two projectiles that had crossed into Israeli territory from Lebanon. The military also reported detecting what it described as a "suspicious aerial target" near the border. The object later fell inside Israeli territory. No injuries or damage were reported in either incident. Also read | Putin's Russia in bizarre plan asks bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves "You're fucking crazy" The projectile launches come as Netanyahu continues to threaten to bomb the Lebanese capital, even as Iran threatens to abandon negotiations with the US over Israel's actions. As Washington continues to push for de-escalation, Trump and the Israeli PM reportedly took part in a tense phone call. According to multiple US media reports, Trump expressed frustration over Israel's recent military actions in Lebanon, warning that further escalation could undermine diplomatic efforts and deepen Israel's international isolation. "You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this," reportedly said a "pissed" Trump. At one point in the call, he even yelled at Netanyahu: "What the fuck are you doing?" The reported exchange followed growing concerns in Washington that continued military operations in Lebanon could derail sensitive negotiations involving Iran. US officials cited by American media outlets said Trump believed Israel had the right to defend itself against attacks but was increasingly concerned about the scale of the response and the risk of a wider regional conflict. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Hours after Donald Trump reportedly lashed out at Benjamin Netanyahu in a heated phone call over threats to bomb Beirut, Israel says it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon, raising fresh doubts about whether efforts to calm the conflict can hold. Scroll down for what happened.

Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu

Hamas on Friday (May 29) accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of a ‘blatant violation’ of the October 2025 ceasefire after he ordered the military to expand its territorial control in the Gaza Strip. “In a blatant violation of all agreements, as is their usual practice, Netanyahu announced expanding control over 70 per cent of the Gaza Strip, while the killing and starvation continue,” Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim told news agency AFP. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem also criticised the ‘complete silence’ of US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace and its high representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, over Israel’s latest military plans.&nbsp;Failing to condemn Israel's expansionist policies and forced displacement plans raises serious questions about the extent of the sponsoring parties' commitment to obliging Israel to adhere to its obligations under the ceasefire deal, Qassem said in a separate statement. On Thursday (May 28), Netanyahu announced that the Israeli military would increase its control of Gaza from 60 per cent to 70 per cent. He said the military had already secured 50 per cent of the territory under the ceasefire framework, adding, “My directive is to move to... 70 percent”. “We're squeezing them from all (sides). We'll deal with what's left afterwards.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pam-bondi-defends-epstein-files-release-but-accepts-redaction-errors-were-made-1780068547696">Pam Bondi defends Epstein files release but accepts ‘redaction errors’ were made</a>&nbsp;The first phase of the ceasefire, which started in October 2025, resulted in the release of the remaining hostages captured during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli detention. However, progress toward the second phase of the agreement has stalled for months. The next phase was expected to include Hamas’s disarmament and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops.&nbsp;Under the ceasefire terms, Israeli forces were required to withdraw behind a ‘yellow line’, marking the division between Hamas-controlled territory and areas held by the Israeli army. Netanyahu had earlier announced on May 15 that Israeli forces were expanding their hold over Gaza. “There were those who said, 'Get out, get out. We did not get out. Today we control... how much? 60 per cent. Tomorrow we shall see,” he said at the time. Despite the truce that took effect on October 10, Gaza continues to witness daily violence, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violating the ceasefire.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hezbollah-s-drone-warfare-is-testing-israel-s-military-limits-1780069572441/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hezbollah-s-drone-warfare-is-testing-israel-s-military-limits-1780069572441/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Hamas accuses Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu of violating the October 2025 Gaza ceasefire after Israel announced plans to expand military control to 70% of the Gaza Strip amid ongoing violence

Hamas on Friday (May 29) accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of a ‘blatant violation’ of the October 2025 ceasefire after he ordered the military to expand its territorial control in the Gaza Strip. “In a blatant violation of all agreements, as is their usual practice, Netanyahu announced expanding control over 70 per cent of the Gaza Strip, while the killing and starvation continue,” Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim told news agency AFP. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem also criticised the ‘complete silence’ of US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace and its high representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, over Israel’s latest military plans. Failing to condemn Israel's expansionist policies and forced displacement plans raises serious questions about the extent of the sponsoring parties' commitment to obliging Israel to adhere to its obligations under the ceasefire deal, Qassem said in a separate statement. On Thursday (May 28), Netanyahu announced that the Israeli military would increase its control of Gaza from 60 per cent to 70 per cent. He said the military had already secured 50 per cent of the territory under the ceasefire framework, adding, “My directive is to move to... 70 percent”. “We're squeezing them from all (sides). We'll deal with what's left afterwards.” Also Read: Pam Bondi defends Epstein files release but accepts ‘redaction errors’ were made The first phase of the ceasefire, which started in October 2025, resulted in the release of the remaining hostages captured during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli detention. However, progress toward the second phase of the agreement has stalled for months. The next phase was expected to include Hamas’s disarmament and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops. Under the ceasefire terms, Israeli forces were required to withdraw behind a ‘yellow line’, marking the division between Hamas-controlled territory and areas held by the Israeli army. Netanyahu had earlier announced on May 15 that Israeli forces were expanding their hold over Gaza. “There were those who said, 'Get out, get out. We did not get out. Today we control... how much? 60 per cent. Tomorrow we shall see,” he said at the time. Despite the truce that took effect on October 10, Gaza continues to witness daily violence, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violating the ceasefire. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hezbollah-s-drone-warfare-is-testing-israel-s-military-limits-1780069572441/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Hamas accuses Benjamin Netanyahu of violating the Gaza ceasefire after Israel announced plans to expand military control to 70% of Gaza

Hamas accuses Israel of 'blatant violation' of ceasefire as Netanyahu orders military to control 70% of Gaza territory

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (May 28) that he has directed Israel’s military to take over 70% of Gaza’s territory. Speaking during a conference in the occupied West Bank, Netanyahu said Israel is increasing pressure on Hamas by expanding its control in Gaza. “We are now in 60% of the territory of the Gaza Strip. We were at 50%. We moved to 60%,” he said. “My directive is to move to, take it step by step, first of all, 70. Let’s start with that.” As Netanyahu addressed the audience, attendees called for Israel to take control of all of Gaza.&nbsp;In late April, maps issued by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to international aid groups showed the military already controlling around 64% of Gaza. The continued expansion of Israeli-controlled areas could force nearly 2 million Palestinians into increasingly limited sections of the already devastated coastal enclave. Under the October 2025 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, Israeli forces had withdrawn to a demarcation zone known as the ‘yellow line’, leaving Israel in control of roughly 53% of Gaza.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Hamas accused Israel of shifting the line and violating the ceasefire agreement. The group said that the move constitutes an explicit and ongoing undermining of the ceasefire agreement, a serious violation of its provisions, and an exposed attempt to impose new facts on the ground by force, to entrench military control over the Strip and undermine any real chance of stabilizing the situation or making de-escalation efforts succeed. The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the United States and promoted by President Donald Trump, officially took effect in October. However, negotiations and implementation have slowed, increasing concerns that Gaza could become permanently divided.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-reach-peace-deal-but-await-trump-s-approval-amid-latest-attacks-report-1779986792215">US, Iran reach ceasefire deal but await Trump's approval amid latest attacks: Report</a>&nbsp;Nickolay Mladenov, the Bulgarian diplomat overseeing implementation of the agreement, warned earlier this month that the yellow line could become a fence or wall, a permanent separation of Gaza if progress continues to stall. Mladenov also highlighted worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, saying that civilians are still being killed and families live in fear of Israeli airstrikes. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued conducting strikes in Gaza, claiming Hamas has violated the agreement by rebuilding and rearming its forces. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Public Health, more than 850 people have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire started.&nbsp;Earlier this month, Israel assassinated Izz al-Din al-Haddad, leader of Hamas’ military wing. Eleven days later, Israeli forces reportedly killed his successor in another strike. “We vowed to eliminate everyone who led the October 7 massacre, and that is what will be done: They are all condemned to death everywhere,” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Thursday on social media.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ghanaian-fm-welcomes-returning-nationals-ghanaians-repatriated-from-south-africa-1779957935051/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ghanaian-fm-welcomes-returning-nationals-ghanaians-repatriated-from-south-africa-1779957935051/embed</a>&nbsp;Mladenov said Hamas has also refused to disarm or decommission its weapons, which remains a key requirement of the ceasefire plan. Under the agreement, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from occupied territory after Hamas disarms gradually, and an international security force takes control of parts of Gaza. While several countries have expressed willingness to contribute troops to the proposed security force, there is still no confirmed deployment timeline. In the meantime, Israel continues expanding its presence across Gaza, deepening concerns over the future of the territory.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will expand control to 70% of Gaza amid ceasefire tensions, Hamas accusations, and ongoing strikes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (May 28) that he has directed Israel’s military to take over 70% of Gaza’s territory. Speaking during a conference in the occupied West Bank, Netanyahu said Israel is increasing pressure on Hamas by expanding its control in Gaza. “We are now in 60% of the territory of the Gaza Strip. We were at 50%. We moved to 60%,” he said. “My directive is to move to, take it step by step, first of all, 70. Let’s start with that.” As Netanyahu addressed the audience, attendees called for Israel to take control of all of Gaza. In late April, maps issued by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to international aid groups showed the military already controlling around 64% of Gaza. The continued expansion of Israeli-controlled areas could force nearly 2 million Palestinians into increasingly limited sections of the already devastated coastal enclave. Under the October 2025 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, Israeli forces had withdrawn to a demarcation zone known as the ‘yellow line’, leaving Israel in control of roughly 53% of Gaza. On Tuesday, Hamas accused Israel of shifting the line and violating the ceasefire agreement. The group said that the move constitutes an explicit and ongoing undermining of the ceasefire agreement, a serious violation of its provisions, and an exposed attempt to impose new facts on the ground by force, to entrench military control over the Strip and undermine any real chance of stabilizing the situation or making de-escalation efforts succeed. The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the United States and promoted by President Donald Trump, officially took effect in October. However, negotiations and implementation have slowed, increasing concerns that Gaza could become permanently divided. Also Read: US, Iran reach ceasefire deal but await Trump's approval amid latest attacks: Report Nickolay Mladenov, the Bulgarian diplomat overseeing implementation of the agreement, warned earlier this month that the yellow line could become a fence or wall, a permanent separation of Gaza if progress continues to stall. Mladenov also highlighted worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, saying that civilians are still being killed and families live in fear of Israeli airstrikes. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued conducting strikes in Gaza, claiming Hamas has violated the agreement by rebuilding and rearming its forces. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Public Health, more than 850 people have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire started. Earlier this month, Israel assassinated Izz al-Din al-Haddad, leader of Hamas’ military wing. Eleven days later, Israeli forces reportedly killed his successor in another strike. “We vowed to eliminate everyone who led the October 7 massacre, and that is what will be done: They are all condemned to death everywhere,” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Thursday on social media. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ghanaian-fm-welcomes-returning-nationals-ghanaians-repatriated-from-south-africa-1779957935051/embed Mladenov said Hamas has also refused to disarm or decommission its weapons, which remains a key requirement of the ceasefire plan. Under the agreement, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from occupied territory after Hamas disarms gradually, and an international security force takes control of parts of Gaza. While several countries have expressed willingness to contribute troops to the proposed security force, there is still no confirmed deployment timeline. In the meantime, Israel continues expanding its presence across Gaza, deepening concerns over the future of the territory.

Israel PM Netanyahu says Israel will control 70% of Gaza as ceasefire tensions rise and Hamas accuses Israel of violating the agreement

Netanyahu orders Israeli military to take control over 70% of Gaza territory

Israel's military says it has begun a wave of strikes across Lebanon following an announcement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that his country will intensify its attacks on Hezbollah.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it had launched strikes against Hezbollah in the eastern Bekaa Valley and other parts of the country.

Netanyahu Vows Intensified Offensive Action Against Hezbollah

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was taken to a hospital in Jerusalem on Monday evening (May 25), his office reportedly said a statement. The Times of Israel quoted local media reports and said that Netanyahu was undergoing “unspecified dental treatment” at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center in Jerusalem. The comes after Netanyahu last month revealed in a social media statement that he had undergone successful radiation therapy at Hadassah Hospital for a malignant prostate tumour. He said the information had been withheld earlier because Iran could have exploited it for propaganda during the recent conflict. As the Iran war began, rumours have been floating that he has been killed or may have fled the country. However, none of it was true. Scrutiny surrounding Benjamin Netanyahu’s health has persisted for years, with the Israeli leader repeatedly facing criticism over the alleged withholding of medical information from the public.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-crush-them-netanyahu-vows-intensified-offensive-action-against-hezbollah-following-drone-attacks-1779734253984">'We will crush them': Netanyahu vows intensified offensive action against Hezbollah following drone attacks</a><h2>Netanyahu’s health under scrutiny</h2>The health of 76-year-old Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has remained under intense public scrutiny following multiple medical episodes and criticism over the limited disclosure of his health condition. Netanyahu did not disclose when he was diagnosed with tumour, when the treatment began, or when it concluded. His announcement was accompanied by an annual health report and a separate note on the cancer treatment, but both documents drew criticism for lacking detail. The report reportedly contained only a few vague bullet points, did not mention the year it covered, and carried no hospital branding or formal certification.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-agreed-final-agreement-with-iran-must-remove-nuclear-danger-says-netanyahu-1779638705604">‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;In recent years, Netanyahu has undergone several medical procedures, including the implantation of a pacemaker in July 2023, hernia surgery in March 2024, and prostate removal surgery in December 2024. During the pacemaker episode, initial statements from his office and the hospital said he had been admitted for dehydration monitoring. Later, however, it emerged that doctors had fitted him with a subcutaneous heart monitor, sparking fresh questions about transparency surrounding his health. Medical officials later acknowledged detecting irregularities in an ECG test but maintained that the prime minister’s heart condition was “completely normal.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was taken to a Jerusalem hospital for dental treatment, reigniting focus on his health after recent cancer treatment, pacemaker implantation and surgeries. The visit also comes amid false online rumours linked to the Iran war.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was taken to a hospital in Jerusalem on Monday evening (May 25), his office reportedly said a statement. The Times of Israel quoted local media reports and said that Netanyahu was undergoing “unspecified dental treatment” at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center in Jerusalem. The comes after Netanyahu last month revealed in a social media statement that he had undergone successful radiation therapy at Hadassah Hospital for a malignant prostate tumour. He said the information had been withheld earlier because Iran could have exploited it for propaganda during the recent conflict. As the Iran war began, rumours have been floating that he has been killed or may have fled the country. However, none of it was true. Scrutiny surrounding Benjamin Netanyahu’s health has persisted for years, with the Israeli leader repeatedly facing criticism over the alleged withholding of medical information from the public. Also Read: 'We will crush them': Netanyahu vows intensified offensive action against Hezbollah following drone attacks Netanyahu’s health under scrutiny The health of 76-year-old Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has remained under intense public scrutiny following multiple medical episodes and criticism over the limited disclosure of his health condition. Netanyahu did not disclose when he was diagnosed with tumour, when the treatment began, or when it concluded. His announcement was accompanied by an annual health report and a separate note on the cancer treatment, but both documents drew criticism for lacking detail. The report reportedly contained only a few vague bullet points, did not mention the year it covered, and carried no hospital branding or formal certification. Also Read: ‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu In recent years, Netanyahu has undergone several medical procedures, including the implantation of a pacemaker in July 2023, hernia surgery in March 2024, and prostate removal surgery in December 2024. During the pacemaker episode, initial statements from his office and the hospital said he had been admitted for dehydration monitoring. Later, however, it emerged that doctors had fitted him with a subcutaneous heart monitor, sparking fresh questions about transparency surrounding his health. Medical officials later acknowledged detecting irregularities in an ECG test but maintained that the prime minister’s heart condition was “completely normal.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was taken to a Jerusalem hospital for dental treatment, reigniting focus on his health after recent cancer treatment, pacemaker implantation and surgeries. The visit also comes amid false online rumours linked to the Iran war.

Netanyahu taken to hospital months after prostate cancer treatment: What happened to Israeli PM?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (May 25) that he had instructed the military to step up its offensive in Lebanon in a bid to ‘crush’ Hezbollah, accusing the militant group of launching drone attacks against Israeli forces. “I have ordered an even greater acceleration of our operations,” Netanyahu said in a video statement shared on his Telegram channel. “It is true that they are attacking us with drones, including fibre-optic drones, but we have teams working on countermeasures, and we will solve this issue. We will intensify our blows, increase our firepower, and we will crush them.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epidemic-is-outpacing-us-who-chief-says-countries-neighbouring-dr-congo-at-high-risk-from-ebola-1779726210566">'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola</a>&nbsp;Despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 17, 2026, Israel and Hezbollah have continued exchanging fire almost daily. In the early hours of Monday, dozens of Israeli strikes hit multiple towns and villages across southern Lebanon, killing three people travelling in two cars and on a motorcycle, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). Later in the day, Israeli airstrikes targeted several areas near the ancient city of Tyre, the NNA reported.&nbsp;The attacks followed evacuation orders issued by Israel for 10 villages, with Israeli authorities accusing Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese officials say Israeli strikes since early March have killed more than 3,100 people. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said on Monday that one soldier was killed in southern Lebanon a day earlier. The latest death brings the number of Israeli soldiers killed since fighting with Hezbollah began to 23. One civilian contractor has also been reported dead.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-rubio-tours-iconic-monuments-in-agra-jaipur-1779719456993/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-rubio-tours-iconic-monuments-in-agra-jaipur-1779719456993/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will intensify military operations in Lebanon to “crush” Hezbollah after alleged drone attacks on Israeli forces

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (May 25) that he had instructed the military to step up its offensive in Lebanon in a bid to ‘crush’ Hezbollah, accusing the militant group of launching drone attacks against Israeli forces. “I have ordered an even greater acceleration of our operations,” Netanyahu said in a video statement shared on his Telegram channel. “It is true that they are attacking us with drones, including fibre-optic drones, but we have teams working on countermeasures, and we will solve this issue. We will intensify our blows, increase our firepower, and we will crush them.” Also Read: 'Epidemic is outpacing us': WHO chief says countries neighbouring DR Congo at 'high risk' from Ebola Despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 17, 2026, Israel and Hezbollah have continued exchanging fire almost daily. In the early hours of Monday, dozens of Israeli strikes hit multiple towns and villages across southern Lebanon, killing three people travelling in two cars and on a motorcycle, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). Later in the day, Israeli airstrikes targeted several areas near the ancient city of Tyre, the NNA reported. The attacks followed evacuation orders issued by Israel for 10 villages, with Israeli authorities accusing Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese officials say Israeli strikes since early March have killed more than 3,100 people. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said on Monday that one soldier was killed in southern Lebanon a day earlier. The latest death brings the number of Israeli soldiers killed since fighting with Hezbollah began to 23. One civilian contractor has also been reported dead. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-rubio-tours-iconic-monuments-in-agra-jaipur-1779719456993/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Israeli PM Netanyahu vows to intensify Israel’s Lebanon offensive, accusing Hezbollah of drone attacks and promising stronger military action

'We will crush them': Netanyahu vows intensified offensive action against Hezbollah following drone attacks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a social media post on Sunday that he spoke with US President Donald Trump the previous night to discuss the latest developments in the ongoing negotiations with Iran, and both agreed that any deal with Iran “must eliminate the nuclear danger”.“I spoke last night with President Donald Trump about the memorandum of understanding to reopen the Straits of Hormuz and the upcoming negotiations toward a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme,” the Israeli PM said.&nbsp;“President Trump and I agreed that any final agreement with Iran must eliminate the nuclear danger. That means dismantling Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites and removing its enriched nuclear material from its territory,” Netanyahu wrote.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-hormuz-traffic-will-return-to-pre-war-levels-within-30-days-after-deal-1779633685669">Iran says Hormuz traffic will return to pre-war levels within 30 days after deal</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I spoke last night with President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> about the memorandum of understanding to reopen the Straits of Hormuz and the upcoming negotiations toward a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. I expressed my deep appreciation to President Trump for his unwavering…&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/2058561344564089252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“My policy, like President Trump’s, remains unchanged: Iran will not have nuclear weapons,” he added.“President Trump also reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself against threats on every front, including Lebanon,” Netanyahu added.&nbsp;Netanyahu also shared an AI-generated image of him and US President Donald Trump on X earlier, declaring that “Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇮🇱🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/FQcgGjmaHE">pic.twitter.com/FQcgGjmaHE</a>&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/2058546285834080466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Netanyahu further said that he expressed his deep appreciation to President Trump for his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security, including during Operation Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, when American and Israeli forces fought shoulder to shoulder against the Iranian threat. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-pezeshkian-says-iran-ready-to-assure-world-it-s-not-seeking-nuclear-weapons-1779627310359">Iran’s president Pezeshkian says Iran ready to assure world it’s not seeking nuclear weapons</a> “The partnership between us and our two countries has been proven on the battlefield and has never been stronger. My policy, like President Trump’s, remains unchanged: Iran will not have nuclear weapons.,” he said concluding the post. Iran’s nuclear programme remains a key consideration in any potential agreement between Tehran and Washington. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-talks-will-collapse-if-the-us-doesn-t-show-flexibility-iran-s-media-1779559398097">‘Talks will collapse if the US doesn't show flexibility’: Iran’s media</a> President Trump said in his latest post on Truth Social that Iran must understand it cannot develop or procure a nuclear weapon or bomb. Iran keeps stating repeatedly that its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes only, but has highly enriched uranium which is not needed elsewhere. Hence, many countries as well as the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), are not convinced by its claims.

PM Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his deep appreciation to President Donald Trump for his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security, including during Operation Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, when American and Israeli forces fought shoulder to shoulder against the Iranian threat.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a social media post on Sunday that he spoke with US President Donald Trump the previous night to discuss the latest developments in the ongoing negotiations with Iran, and both agreed that any deal with Iran “must eliminate the nuclear danger”. “I spoke last night with President Donald Trump about the memorandum of understanding to reopen the Straits of Hormuz and the upcoming negotiations toward a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme,” the Israeli PM said. “President Trump and I agreed that any final agreement with Iran must eliminate the nuclear danger. That means dismantling Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites and removing its enriched nuclear material from its territory,” Netanyahu wrote. Also Read: Iran says Hormuz traffic will return to pre-war levels within 30 days after deal

PM Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his deep appreciation to President Donald Trump for his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security, including during Operation Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, when American and Israeli forces fought shoulder to shoulder against the Iranian threat.

‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu