JERUSALEM, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the next course of action regarding Iran will ultimately be decided by U.S. President Donald Trump, while rejecting claims that he is pressuring Washington to launch further military operations against Tehran.
In an interview with ABC News, Netanyahu dismissed suggestions that he was urging the United States to expand its military campaign against Iran, emphasizing that the leadership of the U.S.-Israel partnership rests with President Trump.
While acknowledging that a diplomatic solution could still be pursued, Netanyahu expressed deep skepticism about Iran’s intentions.
“I do not know whether a diplomatic solution is impossible,” he said. “But I have serious doubts about the Iranian regime’s behavior. They lie, deceive and try to buy time. If diplomatic and economic pressure proves sufficient, then it is worth testing.”
Netanyahu said his recent meeting with President Trump at the White House reinforced his belief that Washington remains the senior partner in the alliance.
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“The United States is our major partner, and I am the junior partner,” Netanyahu said. “However, I am the Prime Minister of Israel, and it is my responsibility to defend Israel’s interests and security.”
The Israeli premier also praised President Trump’s leadership, saying he appreciated the U.S. role in supporting Israel against what he described as a common adversary.
His remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and growing international attention on the future of U.S.-Iran relations, as Washington continues to weigh diplomatic efforts alongside the possibility of further action if negotiations fail.
