Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that diplomatic engagement with Iran's current leadership is impossible, expressing support for President Donald Trump's new economic campaign aimed at crippling the Iranian economy. Netanyahu referred to the authorities in Tehran as "savages" during a recent event in Jerusalem.
During a meeting with Trump at the White House last month, Netanyahu conveyed his skepticism about reaching an agreement with what he described as "that group there, with those savages," adding, "I tell you - an agreement cannot be reached."
Netanyahu also indicated that he and Trump discussed renewing military actions against Iran. "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 stated.
The Israeli leader praised Trump's initiative, which was declared on Monday as an "economic D-Day." The newly expanded sanctions are set to target Iran's technology, gold, aviation, and shipping sectors. Netanyahu described Trump's actions as tightening the siege on Iran by targeting those who support the regime.
Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out any diplomatic deal with Iran as he backed Donald Trump's new economic campaign (pictured together at the White House)
Netanyahu has historically expressed skepticism towards diplomatic solutions with Iran, having campaigned against the 2015 nuclear deal brokered by former U.S. President Barack Obama. However, he has publicly supported Trump's approach.
Trump and Netanyahu were reportedly involved in a joint U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran in late February. However, a ceasefire was agreed upon in April amid significant public opposition in the United States and concerns over rising oil prices.
Netanyahu also revealed on Monday that Iran had attempted to assassinate one of his sons. While he did not provide specific details, Newsmax, citing an anonymous U.S. law enforcement source, reported that the target was Yair Netanyahu, his son who resides in the Miami area. The younger Netanyahu reportedly returned to Israel abruptly.