Donald Trump says Israel would have been ‘crushed’ without US support

US President Donald Trump has said that Israel’s security and military strength in the region depends heavily on support from the United States, claiming that Israel would have been in a much weaker position without American help.

Speaking on Friday, Trump said US assistance plays a major role in Israel’s defense system and military capability.

“If it weren’t for my intervention, Israel would have been crushed,” Trump said. He added that the United States provides key military support, including advanced weapons systems, the Iron Dome air defense system, and B-2 bombers.

Trump also spoke about his working relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying both leaders have worked well together, while highlighting Washington’s influence over Israeli decisions.

“Netanyahu, who worked well with me, will tell you that we are the ones who have the weapons, we are the ones who have the Iron Dome, and we are the ones who have the B-2 bombers,” he said.

The US president further said that Israel respects him and listens to his advice, adding that Washington plays an important role in shaping Israeli policy.

“Israel has a lot of respect for me,” Trump said. “But we have to keep him a little bit sensible,” he added, referring to Netanyahu.

His remarks come at a time when tensions continue in the region, as Israel carries out military actions in Lebanon despite calls from Trump for a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

Earlier this month, Trump also said he had a heated phone call with Netanyahu over continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon.

Although a reported ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah came into effect at 4:00 pm local time on Friday, fresh airstrikes were still reported in southern Lebanon at the start of the truce.

Reports say Israeli strikes hit several areas in southern and eastern Lebanon, causing multiple casualties, including women and children.

The situation remains tense despite international efforts and a US-Iran memorandum that calls for an end to hostilities across the region, including Lebanon. However, Israel has reportedly continued its military actions, distancing itself from the agreement.