In unusually frank remarks, US President Donald Trump appeared to acknowledge that Israel has been causing significant civilian casualties in its attacks on Lebanon, which it claims are targeting only Hezbollah. Speaking to reporters, Trump said: 'Israel’s fighting Hezbollah too long and too many people are being killed. And you don’t have to knock down an apartment house every time you are looking for somebody, because there are a lot of people in those apartment houses and they are not all Hezbollah, that I can tell you.'
Trump criticizes Israeli tactics
Trump expressed disapproval of Israel's strike on the Lebanese capital Beirut, noting that the attack occurred shortly before a deal with Iran was signed. He emphasized that the strike was not limited to the 'southern side' of the city. 'If Israel can’t do the job without killing everyone else, he’ll do the job, Syria will do the job,' Trump said, referring to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, with whom he claims to have good relations.
Reactions and context
The comments come amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with Israel engaged in a prolonged conflict against Hezbollah. Trump's remarks suggest a shift in his stance, as he previously supported Israel's actions. The Syrian president's potential role in dealing with Hezbollah remains unclear, but Trump's statement indicates a possible change in diplomatic dynamics.
