'They're not all Hezbollah': Trump criticises Israel killing civilians in Lebanon

What Happened

At the G7 summit on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump publicly criticised Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, stating that Israel is killing civilians and not only Hezbollah members. Trump said, 'too many people have been killed in Lebanon,' and described Israeli tactics as disproportionate, pointing to the destruction of apartment buildings. He also reportedly called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu 'fucking crazy' in a phone call over attacks that threatened a US-brokered memorandum of understanding with Iran, and later said Netanyahu is a 'very difficult guy' who should be 'more responsible.' Trump asserted that without US support, Israel would not exist. The article notes that Israel has been occupying southern Lebanon since mid-March, and Lebanon's Ministry of Health reports that Israeli attacks since 2 March have killed at least 3,696 people and injured 11,413. Recent exchanges include a Hezbollah attack on northern Israel and Israeli strikes in Beirut's southern suburbs, while Israeli officials insist on maintaining freedom of action in Lebanon, complicating the Iran deal.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

Trump's direct criticism exposes a growing rift between the US and Israel over the conduct of military operations in Lebanon, especially concerning civilian casualties. His remarks could increase pressure on Israel to alter its tactics or withdraw forces, which is a key condition for the fragile US-Iran memorandum of understanding. The continued Israeli presence and Hezbollah's reaction risk derailing the agreement, potentially escalating regional instability and undermining diplomatic efforts to contain Iran's nuclear programme.

Watch For

Monitor whether Israel ceases attacks in Lebanon and withdraws forces as part of the US-Iran deal framework. Watch for statements from Netanyahu's office and any changes in Israeli military activity in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah's response to ongoing Israeli operations could trigger further escalation. Upcoming US-Israeli diplomatic contacts and the status of the Iran negotiations are critical indicators.