Iran live updates: Israel and Iran trade strikes, Trump says he calls ‘all the shots’
President Donald Trump asserted his dominance in a phone interview with the Financial Times on Sunday, claiming that he holds the power in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s influence, Trump made it clear that he calls “all the shots” and that Netanyahu would have to accept any deal negotiated between the U.S. and Iran.
In response to Israel’s recent strikes in Beirut targeting the Iran-aligned Hezbollah militia, Trump expressed discontent during an earlier interview with Fox News. However, he downplayed the significance of the subsequent exchanges of fire between Israel and Iran, stating that the military action “did not kick at all.”
Trump remained optimistic about the possibility of a deal with Iran, indicating that the recent clashes would not impact the negotiations. He emphasized the importance of the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic leverage point in dealing with Iran, suggesting that military action could be on the table if a deal is not reached.
The president’s remarks came shortly after Iran launched missiles at Israel, prompting questions about the timing of his phone interview with the Financial Times. Reports indicate that Trump also planned to call Netanyahu to advise against retaliation, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.
As the situation continues to evolve, the White House has been approached for comment on Trump’s reported phone call and his stance on the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. The ongoing conflict underscores the challenges of navigating geopolitics in the Middle East and the delicate balance of power between key players in the region.
Overall, Trump’s firm stance on asserting control in the Iran-Israel conflict reflects his administration’s approach to foreign policy and the complexities of managing international relations in a volatile region. The repercussions of his decisions and statements will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of U.S. involvement in the Middle East.
