Herzog Calls Trump a Loyal Friend and Pledges Dialogue on Iran and Lebanon

President Isaac Herzog opened the second day of the three-day JNS international policy conference in Jerusalem on Monday morning, using his speech to address US-Israel ties, the Iranian threat, and expected talks between Israel and Lebanon. The conference is focused on security, governance, policy, US-Israel relations, and other geopolitical issues.

Herzog described US President Donald Trump as “a reliable partner of Israel, a loyal friend and an important ally.” He said Trump, as leader of the free world and president of the United States, acted decisively against “the Iranian empire” and helped promote stability in the Middle East. Herzog also said Israel values the American administration’s clear position on Iran’s nuclear program and Tehran’s regional activity.

The president stressed the need to keep the relationship between the countries respectful, saying, “I categorically reject hurtful remarks directed at senior members of the American administration.” He said Israel and the United States share values and interests, and that their cooperation is essential for facing regional challenges.

On Iran, Herzog said Israel does not oppose a diplomatic solution, adding, “On the contrary, we seek peace. We dream of peace on all our borders.” He said any future agreement must prevent resources from reaching terror groups and Iran’s military activity. Regarding Lebanon, he said the dispute should be resolved directly between the two countries, “not through Iranian blackmail,” and insisted that Hezbollah’s disarmament must be part of any settlement because Iran cannot determine Lebanon’s future.