Netanyahu Addresses Iran, Hezbollah, and US Aid in Wide-Ranging Interview

Strategic Overview: The Israeli Prime Minister discussed the ongoing conflict with Iran, military progress against Hezbollah, and a proposed shift in US financial support for Israel.

Status of the Conflict with Iran

Netanyahu stated that the war with Iran is not yet concluded. He identified several objectives that remain unfulfilled, including the removal of enriched uranium, the dismantling of enrichment sites, addressing Iranian-backed proxies, and eliminating ballistic missile production capabilities.

"The material could be physically extracted under an agreement."
— Netanyahu on the removal of highly enriched uranium, declining to provide specific methods or timetables.

Netanyahu described the current state of the Iranian regime as being at its weakest point since 1979, citing internal divisions. However, he noted that hardliners within the regime remain committed to their ideology.

He expressed that a collapse of the Iranian regime could lead to the end of Iranian-backed groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, but he characterized this outcome as uncertain.

Regarding a New York Times report alleging he guaranteed regime change in Iran during a February 11 White House meeting, Netanyahu denied the claim. He stated that both he and President Trump acknowledged the uncertainty and risks involved in any potential regime change scenario.

Operations Against Hezbollah

Netanyahu stated that Israel has destroyed over 90% of Hezbollah's estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles. He acknowledged, however, that thousands of rockets and some ballistic missiles remain in the group's possession.

Netanyahu rejected a ceasefire that would leave Hezbollah intact.

Civilian Casualties and Wartime Mistakes

Netanyahu asserted that Israel seeks to minimize civilian casualties, doing so "as no other army has done in history." He also acknowledged that Israel has made mistakes during the war.

US Financial Aid and Public Opinion

Netanyahu proposed phasing out US financial aid to Israel over the next decade, stating he wants to "draw down to zero the American financial support." He suggested transitioning from a financial aid model to a partnership model.

Regarding declining US public support for Israel, Netanyahu attributed this trend largely to social media manipulation by other countries.

"There has been a concerted effort by several states to vilify Israel on social media."
— Netanyahu on declining US public support

Investigation into October 7th Attack

Netanyahu called for an independent commission to investigate the October 7th attack, drawing a comparison to the 9/11 commission in the United States. He acknowledged that responsibility for the attack extends from the prime minister down.

Additional Details

• Netanyahu indicated that some Arab states have shown interest in strengthening ties with Israel.
• He acknowledged that China has provided support for Iranian missile manufacturing but declined to provide further details.