Netanyahu and Trump Discuss Hostages, Hamas, and Developments in Syria

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed details of his recent conversation with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, focusing on critical security concerns. In a video statement, Netanyahu described the dialogue as “very friendly, very warm, and very important.” The discussion revolved around Israel’s determination to combat Iran and its proxies, as well as ongoing efforts to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s commitment to thwarting Hezbollah’s re-armament, stating, “This is a constant challenge for Israel, and we are fully prepared to face it.” He confirmed that Israel’s recent airstrikes on Syrian military sites were executed to prevent the transfer of weapons that could threaten Israeli security. Additionally, Netanyahu noted that Israeli forces had targeted Hezbollah’s arms supply routes to further diminish the group’s capabilities.

Despite these measures, Netanyahu clarified that Israel does not seek conflict with Syria. “Our policy toward Syria will be shaped by the realities on the ground,” he said, highlighting the shifting dynamics in the region. Netanyahu argued that the Middle East is undergoing significant changes, stating, “Lebanon is not the Lebanon it once was, Gaza is not the Gaza it once was, and Iran is no longer the Iran it used to be.”

He attributed these transformations, in part, to Israel’s operations over the past year, which he claimed have significantly reduced Iran’s influence in Lebanon, Gaza, Yemen, and Syria. Referring to recent Israeli airstrikes, Netanyahu said, “In just a few days, we have dismantled capabilities that the Assad regime spent decades building.” The strikes aimed to prevent weapon transfers from Syria to Hezbollah, which could be used against Israel in the future.

Netanyahu also mentioned that he and Trump discussed the broader implications of these actions on the region and strategies to further weaken Iran’s foothold. Their conversation included efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this humanitarian crisis.

Netanyahu concluded by reaffirming Israel’s resolve to protect its sovereignty and security while adapting to the evolving geopolitical landscape. The Israeli government’s actions, he noted, are intended to ensure that its adversaries do not pose a greater threat in the years to come.