Former US President Bill Clinton has alleged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is exploiting tensions with Iran to extend his political tenure indefinitely. Speaking on The Daily Show, the 42nd US president claimed, “Netanyahu has long wanted to fight Iran because that way he can stay in power forever. He’s dominated Israeli politics for most of the past two decades.”
Clinton called on the Trump administration to mediate de-escalation efforts, emphasising the need to stop the “constant killing of civilians” in the ongoing conflict. “While I don’t believe either Netanyahu or Trump want to trigger a full-scale regional war, we must work to defuse tensions,” he stated, expressing hope that President Trump would intervene.
The former president outlined a dual approach for US policy – maintaining security commitments to regional allies while exercising military restraint. “We must reassure our Middle East partners of our support, but undeclared wars that primarily claim civilian lives are never justified,” Clinton asserted, referring to non-combatants who simply “want to live decent lives”.
Though avoiding direct involvement, the United States has provided strategic assistance to Israel, including missile interception systems and military equipment, following recent exchanges of fire between Tehran and Tel Aviv. Clinton’s remarks come amid heightened regional tensions marked by reciprocal attacks on strategic sites and civilian infrastructure.
The comments reflect growing international concern over the humanitarian consequences of the protracted conflict, with Clinton positioning himself as advocating for diplomatic solutions over military escalation. His intervention highlights the delicate balance Washington must maintain between supporting allies and preventing further civilian casualties in the volatile region.