U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by phone amid growing friction over whether to pursue further military action or diplomacy in the Iran conflict.
The call came after Israel conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah targets. Netanyahu had signaled plans for strikes near Beirut, prompting concerns about a broader escalation. Trump publicly described the discussion as productive and urged restraint on hitting Beirut. Privately, the leaders have differed on goals, with Trump seeking a deal that leaves the Iranian regime in place while Netanyahu favors sustained pressure to weaken Iranian capabilities. Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson of Iowa noted last week that the war risks becoming a political liability if it drags on, citing rising gas prices and American casualties. Netanyahu faces elections in October, adding domestic pressure. The exchanges highlight longstanding differences in priorities between the two leaders despite their earlier coordination on launching the war three months ago.
