Netanyahu: War Against Hezbollah Must Continue
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war with Hezbollah should continue even if hostilities with Iran come to an end.
In an interview with CBS, Netanyahu said Iran was seeking to link any potential ceasefire agreement to other fronts in the region, particularly Lebanon.
“What Iran wants to do is say that if we reach a ceasefire here, then we also want a ceasefire there,” Netanyahu said, referring to Lebanon.
The Israeli premier also said the collapse of the Iranian regime remains possible, though not guaranteed, adding that the timing of such a development “cannot be predicted.”
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said he discussed Iran’s response to the American proposal during a phone call with Netanyahu, describing the conversation as “very pleasant.”
According to Axios, Trump said the Iranian response was among several topics discussed with the Israeli prime minister.
“We had a very pleasant call. We have a good relationship,” Trump said, adding that negotiations involving Iran are “my responsibility and no one else’s.”
Trump did not clarify during the brief remarks whether he intends to continue diplomatic negotiations or whether he may instead consider a military option.
Iran’s state television later reported that Tehran’s response to the U.S. proposal focused on ending the war across all fronts, particularly in Lebanon, while also ensuring the safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The report did not specify how or when the vital maritime route would be fully reopened.
