Netanyahu says he and Trump agree on disarming Hezbollah despite tense exchange

What happened

Naharnet reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu downplayed a recent row with US President Donald Trump, stating both leaders are aligned on the objective of disarming Hezbollah as part of achieving peace between Israel and Lebanon. Trump confirmed a tense verbal exchange with Netanyahu, reportedly involving expletives, during a phone call earlier in the week.

In a CNBC interview, Netanyahu described Hezbollah as an Iranian proxy armed with missiles and drones aimed at Israeli civilians, asserting that disarming the group and demilitarizing Lebanon are necessary steps to preserve Lebanon and establish peace. Netanyahu insisted that he and Trump share this goal despite their tactical disagreements.

Trump told the New York Post that he was "perturbed" by Netanyahu's ongoing conflicts with Lebanon and admitted to using harsh language in urging Netanyahu to stop these actions. He nevertheless characterized their overall relationship as "very good," emphasizing mutual respect and past cooperation.

Known from the source

• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly stated he and US President Donald Trump share the goal of disarming Hezbollah to achieve peace with Lebanon.
• Trump confirmed to the New York Post that he had a tense phone call with Netanyahu, involving strong language regarding Netanyahu's dealings with Lebanon.
• Netanyahu described Hezbollah as an Iranian proxy using Lebanon to launch missiles and drones against Israeli civilians.
• Trump said he was "perturbed" by Netanyahu's actions and advised him to stop.
• Trump and Netanyahu’s overall relationship remains described as positive and cooperative by both parties.

What remains unclear

The reports come amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon, Lebanese official comments on phased ceasefire talks, and Iranian warnings over further escalation. The source does not independently confirm details about the extent or attribution of recent strikes, casualties, or ceasefire progress.

What remains unclear: Detailed confirmation of the language and tone used between Trump and Netanyahu during their phone conversation. Independent verification of Netanyahu’s assessment of Hezbollah’s military capabilities and actions. Verification of the current status and concrete outcomes of ceasefire negotiations between Lebanon and Israel. Attribution and details of the recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon including casualty figures.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Naharnet Lebanon. Open the source.