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Trump says Netanyahu could use 'softer touch' in Lebanon

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could use a “softer touch” in Lebanon, in comments made at the close of a G7 Summit in France.

“Netanyahu happens to be a good man, gets a little excited sometimes,” Trump told reporters on Wednesday.

“We have a little dispute over Lebanon. I say you can do a little softer touch, Bibi. You don’t have to knock down a building every time somebody walks into it that’s from Hezbollah.”

Trump added that he agreed with the description of Israel as being “the very small partner” of the US.

US President Donald Trump, during a press conference during the G7 Leaders' Summit on 17 June 2026, in Evian-les-Bains, France. (AFP)

US President Donald Trump, during a press conference during the G7 Summit on 17 June 2026, in Evian-les-Bains, France (AFP)