Netanyahu downplays dispute with Trump, says they agree on disarming Hezbollah

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sought to minimize a recent contentious exchange with former U.S. President Donald Trump, asserting that both leaders share the ultimate goal of disarming Hezbollah to foster peace between Israel and Lebanon. The clarification comes after Trump confirmed a "tense" phone call between them, during which Trump reportedly used expletives.

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Hezbollah is an Iranian proxy that threatens all Lebanese citizens with weapons and uses Lebanon as a platform to launch terrorist rockets into our cities and murderous drones into our civilians.

In an interview with CNBC, Netanyahu characterized the disagreement as a "tactical" issue, stressing that he and Trump are aligned on fundamental objectives. He described Hezbollah as an "Iranian proxy" that threatens Lebanese citizens and launches attacks against Israeli cities and civilians. "So if we want to save Lebanon, if we want peace between Lebanon and Israel, as I want, we must disarm Hezbollah and demilitarize Lebanon," Netanyahu stated, adding, "I know that this is the common goal of President Trump and myself, and this is what we must do."

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So if we want to save Lebanon, if we want peace between Lebanon and Israel, as I want, we must disarm Hezbollah and demilitarize Lebanon.

Trump, speaking to the New York Post, confirmed the heated conversation, expressing concern over Netanyahu's ongoing conflict with Lebanon. "I said, 'Bibi, we have to stop this,'" Trump recounted. Despite the reported friction, Trump also emphasized his strong relationship with Netanyahu, stating, "We’ve gotten along well together... I like Bibi very much." Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, noting that while tactical disagreements may arise, they always find a way to move forward as "great friends," often resolving differences by the afternoon after morning disputes. He reiterated that Trump remains "the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House."

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I know that this is the common goal of President Trump and myself, and this is what we must do.