Trump expressed concern that Iran may be attempting to rebuild its nuclear and military capabilities after a prior US strike in June. “I am reading reports that they are again developing weapons and other military capabilities. If that is indeed happening, then they are not using the bases that we completely destroyed, but are doing this from somewhere else,” he said. The President highlighted the logistical challenge of deploying the B-2 stealth bomber, which consumes an estimated 750 to 900 tons of fuel for a 37-hour mission, underscoring the scale of a potential military operation.
In addition, Trump addressed Hamas, warning the Palestinian group to disarm or face severe consequences. He stated, “Hamas will be given very little time to lay down its weapons, and then we will see which direction things go. If Hamas does not lay down its weapons, it will have to pay a heavy price.” No response has yet been issued by Hamas regarding the warning.
The discussions between Trump and Netanyahu also covered broader regional security issues, including the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, Israel’s concerns regarding Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the possibility of deploying a Turkish peacekeeping force in Gaza. While the ceasefire has reduced hostilities, over 400 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks since October, mostly civilians, alongside three Israeli soldier fatalities from Palestinian attacks.
Trump and Netanyahu further discussed Israel’s approach to Syria under new President Ahmed al-Shara, who succeeded long-time leader Bashar al-Assad. Israel remains cautious due to al-Shara’s historical association with extremist groups, prompting preemptive airstrikes in Damascus last July. Netanyahu stressed Israel’s commitment to securing peaceful borders with Syria while remaining vigilant of security threats.
Analysts note that Trump’s remarks on Iran and Hamas reinforce a hardline US-Israel security posture in the Middle East, signaling potential escalation if Tehran or Hamas defy the warnings. The statements come amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing concerns over nuclear proliferation and militant activity.
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