President Trump told Axios he is urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to retaliate after Iran launched a missile barrage responding to Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon. He argued the missile fire caused no casualties and warned that Israeli retaliation would only prolong the conflict. Trump also said recent strikes on Beirut were not coordinated with Washington and urged both sides not to jeopardize an imminent diplomatic deal.
Trump Urges Netanyahu Not To Strike Iran After Missile Barrage, Warning Of Prolonged Escalation
President Donald Trump told Axios he has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to launch retaliatory strikes against Iran after Tehran fired a barrage of missiles in response to ongoing Israeli operations in southern Lebanon.
"The Iranian missile fire didn't hit anyone. I hope Israel doesn't respond," Trump said. "If Bibi attacks them back, it'll just drag on like it has for the past 47 years, or the past 3,000 years."
What Happened
Iran described its missile launch as a "warning" to Israel, characterizing the strikes as retaliation for continued Israeli military activity in southern Lebanon. Iranian officials framed the action as a signal intended to deter further attacks, not to escalate into a broader conflict.
Trump's Message And Context
Trump told Axios he is "not happy" about Israel's recent strikes on Beirut and told Fox News that those operations were not coordinated with the United States. Speaking to Israel's Channel 12, he said negotiators are "very close to a deal to end the war," and urged both sides not to take actions that could derail a possible settlement.
Why It Matters: The exchange highlights U.S. concern about a widening regional confrontation and underscores diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire and negotiated resolution. Trump framed his appeal as aimed at preventing further escalation and protecting the prospect of a diplomatic deal.
Sources: Axios, Fox News, Channel 12.
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