Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Statement
Peloni: Many of the questions in the press conference reflected the opening of the political season for the coming election, but note too that the Bibi’s answers were frank and qualifying. Most notably, Bibi makes it very clear that he is still unaware of the terms of the presumably now signed document. He also references and respects the relationship with the US, and is careful to explain the nature of relationship is one that requires careful handling. While making the election pitch that the manner in which he handled this relationship is reflected in the achievements which have taken place over this past term, it must be noted that Bibi stood up to Biden when he, along with the support of others including Eisenkot and Gantz, when he took the bold step of seizing Rafah. So too it must be reflected upon that the IDF today remains in Lebanon in a forward position and in full possession of Beaufort Castle and beyond the Litani. A question remains in my mind if it is believable that Bibi could reasonably withstand the pressure from Trump in demanding he evacuate Lebanon, and yet, there the IDF remains. Much will be determined if this buffer zone is abandoned once again as has happened in the past under US pressure. Should the IDF maintain or expand this position in Lebanon, it is a credible question of whether this is being accomplished with Trump’s support or despite it. Stated otherwise, is it reasonable that Bibi could openly defy Trump on this point, even as he could not do so at the end of the 12 Day War when Trump demanded and end to the war?
Please see translation of Q&A section following PM Netanyahu’s speech at bottom.
Translation of the Q&A Session of PM Netanyahu Press Conference:
Photo by Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America – J. D. Vance, CC BY-SA 2.0, 
Israeli flag at Masada Public Domain. Wikipedia
IDF soldiers operating in Southern Lebanon area, June 11, 2026 Photo: IDF
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Photo b
President Trump Pointing. Screenshot via Youtube
