Israeli drone and jet strikes hit southern Lebanon on Wednesday. The same day, former U.S. President Donald Trump took aim at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the G7 summit. Netanyahu fired back, vowing that Israeli forces would stay put in the area.
Southern Lebanon Under Fire
The strikes came without immediate explanation from Israeli military officials. Witnesses reported explosions near the border region. Southern Lebanon has long been a flashpoint between Israel and Hezbollah, but the facts don't say who was targeted Wednesday. What's clear: the operation used both drones and fighter jets—a combination that signals a deliberate, multi-platform assault.
Trump's Sharp Words at the Summit
At the G7, Trump didn't hold back. He criticized Netanyahu directly, though the exact content of the remarks hasn't been detailed. The former president's comments injected an unusual dose of public discord into what's typically a closed-door gathering of world leaders. Trump's relationship with Netanyahu has swung between warm and tense over the years. Wednesday's criticism suggests the latest cooling phase.
Netanyahu's Vow to Hold Ground
Netanyahu responded quickly. He said Israeli forces would not withdraw from the area. His statement left no room for negotiation: the military presence continues. That stance could complicate any diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. It also puts Netanyahu at odds with Trump's apparent disapproval.
Eizenkot's Poll Numbers
Meanwhile, a new poll puts former military chief Gadi Eizenkot's approval rating at 39.1%. Eizenkot, who now serves as a lawmaker in the opposition, has positioned himself as a security hawk with a different style from Netanyahu. The number gives a snapshot of his standing amid the latest military action. Whether the strikes shift public opinion—for or against either leader—remains an open question.
The strikes and the political back-and-forth leave a volatile mix. No ceasefire talks have been announced. And with Trump's critique on the record and Netanyahu dug in, the next move is anybody's guess.
