Netanyahu Rejects Claims Israel ‘Dragged’ US into Iran Conflict
Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly dismissed suggestions that Israel had pulled the United States into its ongoing war with Iran, stressing during a Thursday press briefing that President Donald Trump makes independent decisions based solely on American interests.
Addressing reporters amid escalating tensions in the region, Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s autonomous military actions while underscoring strong bilateral coordination with Washington. He directly refuted accusations of Israel “dragging” the US into the fray.
“Does anyone really think that someone can tell President Trump what to do? Come on. President Trump always makes his decisions on what he thinks is good for America,” Netanyahu remarked in response to a journalist’s question.
He provided clear details on recent operations, stating: “Fact number one: Israel acted alone against the Assaluyeh gas compound. Fact number two: President Trump asked us to hold off on future attacks, and we’re holding off.”
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Netanyahu expressed optimism about the campaign’s progress, declaring, “We are winning and Iran is being decimated.” He predicted a swifter resolution than many anticipate, saying, “I also see this war ending a lot faster than people think.”
On Iran’s domestic front, he noted emerging pressures without forecasting an imminent regime fall. “A lot of signs… I wish I could divulge all of them,” he said. “We’re working to create the conditions for it to collapse. But it may survive, it may not.”
He asserted significant setbacks to Tehran’s military-industrial base: “We are taking action to destroy the industries that make it possible to build missiles. Iran no longer has the capacity to enrich uranium and manufacture ballistic missiles.”
Reaffirming the alliance, Netanyahu praised joint capabilities: “In partnership with our American allies, we can do amazing things… It’s the two most amazing air forces in the world… the two most amazing intelligence services in the world.”
The comments come as the Israel-Iran confrontation intensifies, with Israel conducting independent strikes while adhering to US requests for restraint on certain targets. Netanyahu’s briefing sought to clarify decision-making dynamics and project confidence in Israel’s strategic position.