Trump says Israel 'could do a better job' with Hezbollah as he discusses Netanyahu

Donald Trump appeared to criticise some Israeli strikes on Lebanon as he addressed the media at the end of the G7 summit. During a long press conference marking the end of the high-profile meeting held in France this week, the US President spoke about the Iran deal, as well as the tensions between Hezbollah and Israel.

While he described Israel as a “good partner”, he appeared to criticise some of Tel Aviv’s actions against Lebanese infrastructrure. He said: “I’m not saying they shouldn’t protect themselves. I’m saying when two drones are shot into the desert and drop harmlessly, you don’t have to knock down buildings in Beirut.”

He added: “They could behave better. And frankly, they could do a better job. I love them as a partner. They’re terrific. But they could do a much better job with Hezbollah on that. I don’t think they’re doing well. And I feel very bad for Lebanon.”