'Israel Would Not Exist Without The US': Why Donald Trump Made The Remark At The G7 Summit

US President Donald Trump has once again spoken openly about his ties with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the two share an "unbelievable relationship."

However, he also made it clear that he believes American support has been crucial to Israel's survival and raised concerns over the ongoing military operations in Lebanon.

Speaking on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian, France, Trump discussed his relationship with Netanyahu, the recent violence involving Hezbollah, and the newly announced US-Iran peace initiative aimed at reducing tensions in West Asia.

Trump Defends His Bond With Netanyahu

When reporters asked whether he was frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after recent disagreements over Israel's airstrikes in Beirut, Trump dismissed any suggestion of a rift.

Trump: "If it werent for the United States of America, with me…Israel would not exist right now. Israel would have been blown off the face of the earth, one hundred percent — and every smart person in Israel knows that." pic.twitter.com/CmBIOIYEfa

— The Bulwark (@BulwarkOnline) June 16, 2026

"We have a very good relationship," he said, adding that his bond with the Israeli leader remains strong. Referring to Netanyahu by his popular nickname, Trump added, "When you ask me about Bibi: an unbelievable relationship."

The comments come after reports that the two leaders had differed over Israel's recent military actions against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.

'Israel Would Not Exist Without the US'

While praising his relationship with Netanyahu, Trump also stressed that the United States has played a major role in protecting Israel.

He claimed that without American backing, Israel would have faced severe threats to its existence. "If it weren't for the United States of America, with me, Israel would not exist right now," Trump said while addressing reporters at the G7 gathering.

He further argued that American involvement had helped prevent greater instability in the region and that many people in Israel recognise the importance of US support.

Trump Questions Israeli Airstrikes in Beirut

Despite standing by Israel, Trump appeared critical of some of its military operations in Lebanon. He said that too many civilians were losing their lives during attacks aimed at Hezbollah targets.

According to Trump, large residential buildings should not be destroyed simply to target a few militants, as innocent families also live in those areas.

"You don't have to knock down an apartment house every time you're looking for somebody," he said, suggesting that military operations should avoid causing unnecessary civilian casualties.

Suggestion to Let Syria Handle Hezbollah

Trump also revealed that he had offered a different approach to dealing with Hezbollah. He said he had suggested that Israel allow Syria to take action against the militant group instead.

According to the US President, Syria could "do a better job" of handling Hezbollah, though he did not provide details about how such an arrangement would work.

The comments reflect Trump's view that regional players should take greater responsibility for security challenges while reducing the scale of wider military confrontations.

US-Iran Deal and the Push for Peace

Trump also spoke about the recently announced agreement between the United States and Iran, which aims to reduce tensions in West Asia after months of conflict.

He described the Israel-Hezbollah confrontation as "the minor war" and said that Iran remains the bigger issue for regional stability. However, he expressed hope that the new agreement would help calm multiple fronts of the conflict.

According to the announcement, the US and Iran have agreed to a framework that includes a 60-day ceasefire, creating space for further negotiations toward a long-term settlement. An official signing ceremony is expected to take place in Geneva, Switzerland.

Focus on Lebanon and Regional Stability

Pakistan, which played a mediating role in the discussions, stated that the agreement calls for an immediate halt to military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon.

Trump also announced that he had ordered the removal of the US naval blockade around Iranian ports. He said he expects the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy shipping routes, to return to normal operations following the initial agreement.
The developments mark a significant diplomatic effort to reduce conflict in the region, even as fighting and political tensions continue to shape the security situation in West Asia.

A Mixed Message From Trump

Trump's latest remarks present a balanced but complex message. On one hand, he strongly defended his relationship with Netanyahu and reaffirmed America's support for Israel. On the other, he openly questioned the human cost of military operations in Beirut and called for alternative ways to deal with regional threats.

As diplomatic efforts continue and the proposed US-Iran agreement moves forward, Trump's comments are likely to add another layer to the ongoing debate over security, alliances and peace efforts in the Middle East.