Isaac Herzog has denied claims that Israel pressured U.S. President Donald Trump into launching military strikes against Iran.
Speaking on the fifth day of Israel’s campaign, known as Operation Roaring Lion, Herzog said the decision to strike was Trump’s alone. The United States refers to the mission as Operation Epic Fury. The operation began on February 28, 2026.
Herzog said, “Israel does not dictate anything to President Trump, and Israel does not drag America into a war.” He described Trump’s move as “uniquely bold” and based on clear American interests. He also praised the close coordination between the two allies.
The joint operation has included airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, missile sites, air defense systems and other military targets. Iranian state media has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in early strikes.
Herzog said the goal is to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons and weaken its missile program and regional influence. He stressed that Israel is not calling for a U.S. ground invasion, but instead focused on air and precision strikes.
Trump has defended the action as necessary to protect both U.S. and Israeli interests. He described the campaign as a major success and said it will continue until Iran can no longer pose a nuclear threat.
Iranian officials claim at least 1,230 people have been killed so far, including civilians. Iran has responded with missile launches toward Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv. Some missiles were intercepted, while others caused limited damage. Tensions have also risen in Lebanon, where Hezbollah is involved.
Oil prices have surged due to fears of disruption in the Persian Gulf. As the conflict enters its sixth day, both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu say the operation is ongoing, with no clear end date announced.
