President Isaac Herzog condemned criticism of senior U.S. officials on Monday, emphasizing Israel’s close coordination with Washington on regional security issues and calling U.S. President Donald Trump a “trusted partner” and “closest friend and ally” of Israel.
Speaking at a JNS conference, Herzog said he “totally reject[s] any derogatory statements aimed at senior officials in the administration” and expressed confidence that Israel and the United States could find “the best formula” for addressing the challenge posed by Iran.
Referring to U.S.-Iran talks, Herzog said Tehran’s nuclear ambitions remain a threat to Israel and global security, while warning that any financial components of a future agreement must not allow funds to be diverted to Iran’s military and regional proxies.
On Lebanon, Herzog said the conflict should be resolved through direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, “not by Iranian extortion.” He said Hezbollah’s disarmament must be part of any solution and added that “Iran cannot dictate the future of Lebanon.” He noted that talks between Israel and Lebanon are set to resume in Washington on Tuesday under U.S. auspices.