Trump Criticizes Israeli Strikes in Lebanon, Clashes with Netanyahu

The official, speaking to Reuters, described the talks as "stubborn negotiations," signaling that Israel is pushing back firmly against American pressure to reduce its footprint in southern Lebanon. "Israel has no intention of withdrawing from its positions," the official said.

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the issue directly during a speech at the G7 summit in France, making no effort to conceal his criticism of Israeli conduct in Lebanon or his disagreement with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the matter.

"I think they could operate in a somewhat more moderate way when it comes to Lebanon," Trump said at the summit. "Between me and Bibi there is a small dispute on the subject - maybe you don't need to bring down a building every time someone from Hezbollah enters it."

Trump went further, suggesting Israel's handling of the Hezbollah front had fallen short. "Israel could have done a better job on the Hezbollah issue," he said. "I'm not saying they shouldn't defend themselves - but they certainly could have handled things better." He also pointed to the civilian cost of the strikes. "There are people there living their lives, and buildings are collapsing on them or right next to them - would you want to live there?"

Trump specifically addressed a recent Israeli Air Force strike on the Dahieh neighborhood in Beirut, a Hezbollah stronghold in the city's southern suburbs. "That was a very large strike - in my opinion, it was not necessary," he said, adding: "This is so unfair, especially in Beirut." Trump had previously urged Netanyahu to use what he called a "softer touch" in Israeli airstrikes, even as operations in southern Lebanon continued.

Despite the American criticism, Israeli forces have continued operating in southern Lebanon. The Israeli Air Force struck and destroyed a launcher used to fire rockets at an IDF unit in the area, according to military reports - an incident Israeli officials cite as evidence of the ongoing security threat requiring their continued presence.

The dispute has developed as the United States and Iran are reported to be working toward an arrangement aimed at ending the fighting across multiple fronts. Israeli officials appear unwilling to accept conditions tied to such a deal that would require a withdrawal from positions they regard as strategically vital, and sources familiar with the situation say Israel views its presence in southern Lebanon as a security necessity rather than a bargaining chip.