Beirut – Israeli media outlets revealed behind-the-scenes pressure exerted by President Donald Trump’s administration on Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to calibrate the pace of military operations in Lebanon. Channel 12 reported that Trump explicitly asked Netanyahu to adopt a “more cautious” approach, warning that widespread scenes of building destruction negatively impact Israel’s international image and complicate Washington’s diplomatic missions. Obviously, Trump is seeking to impose new “rules of engagement” to prevent the collapse of the fragile ceasefire, ensuring operations remain “localized and specific” rather than aiming for total destruction.
“Iran is the Driver”: Trump Accuses Hezbollah of Ruining Lebanon, Targets Regional Influence
In sharp remarks, Trump pointed the finger directly at Hezbollah, stating it has caused the “destruction of Lebanon” with Iranian support and guidance. Clearly, Trump links the stability of the northern front to the reduction of Iranian influence in the region, asserting that Lebanon’s future will not improve without addressing the root problem tied to Tehran. As a result, observers believe Washington is planning for the post-calm phase by pushing to dismantle military capabilities linked to the Iranian axis as a condition for sustainable stability.
Race Against Time: Will the Calm Withstand the Ambitions of the Israeli “Right”?
Trump emphasized that international efforts are currently focused on preventing the situation from exploding in the coming weeks to avoid a new humanitarian and economic disaster in Lebanon. Accordingly, this stance represents an American “brake” on the military ambitions of the Israeli far-right, which demands expanded operations. Amid this tug-of-war between Washington and Tel Aviv, the bet remains on the White House’s ability to convince Israel that “comprehensive regional solutions” are the only guarantee of security, rather than getting embroiled in a long-term war of attrition on Lebanese soil.
