President Donald Trump plans to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to advise against retaliation following Iran's missile attack. Trump stated, "I am going to call Bibi right now and tell him not to retaliate. Each of them had their fun. Israel had its strike, and Iran had its strike. We don't need another one."
The situation is critical as the ceasefire in the Middle East is at risk after Israel's strike on Beirut and Iran's missile response. Trump aims to prevent further escalation that could jeopardize a potential deal with Iran.
On Sunday, Iran launched missiles at Israel in response to the Israeli strike, marking its first direct attack since the ceasefire on April 8. Israel reported that it intercepted the missiles. Trump's request for Israel not to retaliate is noted as unusual, as U.S. support is crucial for any Israeli military action against Iran. A U.S. official indicated uncertainty about whether Trump would restrict U.S. military assistance to Israel in the event of a strike.
Trump downplayed the Iranian strikes, stating, "The Iranian strikes didn't hurt anybody," and expressed hope that Israel would refrain from retaliation to avoid prolonged conflict. He emphasized the importance of reaching a final deal with Iran.
In contrast, the Israel Defense Forces chief of staff is currently approving military plans, with IDF spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin stating that the Iranian regime has made a significant error and that Israel will continue to target Hezbollah in Beirut.
