Washington/Islamabad (Web Desk): US President Donald Trump has claimed in an interview that Israel could have faced severe damage or even complete destruction if he had not been in office. He said he maintains good relations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, although at times he needs to keep him “under control.”
Trump stated that he has the ability to prevent Israel from carrying out further attacks on Lebanon, adding that many Israeli decisions align with his policies.
Speaking on US policy regarding Iran, the American president said Washington did not act out of desperation, insisting that the process was initiated by Tehran. He claimed Iran has been significantly weakened and will not receive any financial assistance.
Trump further asserted that Iran’s military capabilities have been badly damaged, saying it no longer possesses an effective air force, navy, air defense systems, or radar infrastructure. He also criticized Democrats, arguing that their claims of Iran being in a better position now are far from reality.
Meanwhile, planned talks between the United States and Iran in Switzerland have been cancelled.
According to the Swiss Foreign Ministry, the scheduled negotiations in Burgenstock will no longer take place. The decision came after US Vice President JD Vance postponed his visit to Switzerland.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry, however, stated that it remains willing to host and facilitate future negotiations, although no new date has been announced.
At the same time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly facing multiple domestic and international pressures.
Hardline factions in Israel are demanding large-scale action against Hezbollah, while the US administration is pushing to avoid further escalation and keep diplomatic efforts with Iran ongoing.
Netanyahu has said that Israel will not tolerate any attacks on its forces or territory and that Hezbollah will pay a “heavy price.” However, his recent statements also suggest a degree of caution, indicating reluctance to further expand the conflict at this stage.