Trump says Israel would have been crushed without US support
US President Donald Trump said Israel's position in the region depended heavily on American support, arguing that US military assistance had been central to the country's security.
"If it weren't for my intervention, Israel would have been crushed," Trump said, adding that the United States provided key capabilities, including advanced weapons systems, the Iron Dome air defence network and B-2 bombers.
Trump also commented on his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing it as positive while suggesting that Washington plays an important role in influencing Israeli decision-making.
"Netanyahu, who worked well with me, will tell you that we are the ones who have the weapons, we are the ones who have the Iron Dome, and we are the ones who have the B-2 bombers," Trump said.
He added that Israel has significant respect for him and would listen to his advice, saying: "But we have to keep him a little bit sensible."