Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that any diplomatic agreement with Iran is impossible, aligning with President Donald Trump's recently launched economic campaign against Tehran. Netanyahu referred to the Iranian authorities as "savages" during remarks made in Jerusalem.
During a meeting with Trump at the White House last month, Netanyahu conveyed his skepticism about reaching an accord with the current Iranian leadership. "I doubt that an agreement can be reached with that group there, with those savages. I tell you – an agreement cannot be reached," he said.
The two leaders also discussed the possibility of renewed military action against Iran. Netanyahu affirmed, "We will not allow Iran to attack us, and if, God forbid, they attack us, they will suffer a blow beyond anything they have imagined– far stronger than anything they have suffered until now."
Netanyahu praised Trump's declaration of an "economic D-Day" targeting Iran's economy. The newly expanded sanctions are set to affect Iran's technology, gold, aviation, and shipping sectors. Netanyahu described Trump's actions as tightening the "siege on those who help that regime, that terrible dictatorship," deeming it "very important."
Historically, Netanyahu has advocated for a strong stance against Iran, which supports groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. He has consistently expressed skepticism regarding diplomatic efforts with Iran, notably opposing the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated during the Obama administration. However, he has publicly avoided direct criticism of Trump, who has also pursued a negotiated settlement.
In late February, the U.S. and Israel jointly engaged in actions against Iran. However, a ceasefire was agreed upon in April amid public opposition in the U.S. to the conflict, which had contributed to rising oil prices.
Netanyahu revealed on Monday that Iran had attempted to assassinate one of his sons. While he did not provide specific details, a U.S. law enforcement source cited by Newsmax indicated the target was Yair Netanyahu, his son who resides in the Miami area. The younger Netanyahu reportedly returned to Israel abruptly.
In late February, Israel reported the death of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and members of his family during an initial military action. Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, was named the new supreme leader the following week and has not been seen publicly since. Mojtaba Khamenei stated that in addition to his father, he had lost his wife, sister, nephew, and brother-in-law.