Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently expressed his views on the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, following comments from various Israeli officials. He acknowledged that he and U.S. President Donald Trump do not always see eye to eye, a sentiment he described as common even among close allies.
During a press conference, Netanyahu stated, “He (Trump) is the President of the United States, and I am the Prime Minister of Israel. I am responsible for Israel’s security interests, and that must be done wisely.” While he refrained from delving deeply into the specifics of the agreement, he highlighted what he termed significant Israeli achievements in countering Iranian influence and maintaining stability in the Middle East.
Netanyahu asserted, “With or without the agreement, Iran will not have nuclear weapons—neither today nor tomorrow. As long as I am Prime Minister of Israel, that will not happen.” He emphasized the ongoing nature of the struggle against threats in the region, urging vigilance and strength to protect Israel if necessary.
Furthermore, he made it clear that Israel does not plan to withdraw its military presence from southern Lebanon, Gaza, or Syria, stating, “We will remain in security zones for as long as necessary to protect our country.” In response to questions from journalists, Netanyahu acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the agreement itself, saying, “We still do not know what the agreement will look like.”
When asked if the agreement was reached against his position, Netanyahu reaffirmed his longstanding relationship with Trump. He remarked, “To act wisely requires significant experience and a deep understanding of the American political landscape. I believe I am doing this in the best way possible.”
Background:
- A signing ceremony for the peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran is reported to take place on June 19 in Geneva, Switzerland.
- President Trump had previously announced the conclusion of a peace agreement with Iran and indicated plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz shortly.
- In this context, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy have expressed their readiness to support the resumption of movement in the Strait of Hormuz.
Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed the recent U.S.-Iran agreement, acknowledging differing views with President Trump while emphasizing Israel's security stance. He reiterated Israel's commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and maintaining military presence in key regions.