Netanyahu threatens to ‘crush’ Iran as Israel ignores Trump’s five-day pause

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday, March 23, that Israel will continue its military operations against Iran and allied groups even as discussions around a potential agreement move forward.

In a video statement, Netanyahu confirmed he spoke with President Donald Trump earlier in the day about recent battlefield developments and possible diplomatic pathways.

“President Trump believes there is an opportunity to realize the goals of the war in an agreement that will safeguard our vital interests,” Netanyahu said.

He added that Israel remains engaged in active operations, including strikes in Iran and against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.

Nuclear scientists eliminated in covert strikes

Netanyahu said Israeli operations in recent days resulted in the deaths of two Iranian nuclear scientists, part of what he described as ongoing efforts targeting Iran’s nuclear program.

He linked the strikes to broader actions taken since the start of the conflict on February 28.

Israeli forces have also conducted repeated strikes on the Natanz uranium-enrichment facility.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) officials have continued monitoring the site, reporting no confirmed off-site radiation impact so far.

Dismantling the 'Axis' in Lebanon

In Lebanon, Israeli forces are continuing operations against Hezbollah targets. Netanyahu said the campaign includes strikes on missile launchers and command infrastructure used to carry out attacks on northern Israel.

Israeli officials have reported the killing of senior Hezbollah figures, including a commander associated with the Radwan Force.

Military actions have also targeted infrastructure such as bridges near the Litani River, which Israeli authorities say are used for logistical support.

“We continue to attack both in Iran and Lebanon,” Netanyahu said, indicating that operations across multiple fronts remain ongoing.

Trump’s five-day strike postponement

Netanyahu’s remarks come after Trump announced a five-day delay in planned US strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, citing ongoing discussions with Tehran.

Trump has said there is a possibility of reaching an agreement, though Iranian officials have denied that talks are taking place.

Netanyahu did not indicate any slowdown in Israeli operations during this period, underscoring that military pressure will continue alongside diplomatic efforts.

He said any agreement would need to address Israel’s security concerns and prevent future threats from Iran.