Netanyahu discusses Iranian regime change with U.S. President Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on October 20, 2026, that he held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, October 18, to discuss the strategic necessity of eliminating the Iranian regime. Netanyahu emphasized that this remains Israel's primary goal, arguing that such a move is essential to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to dismantle its regional influence network.

During meetings with leaders of Israeli border towns near Lebanon, Netanyahu described Tehran as the "head of a poisonous octopus." He asserted that the collapse of the Iranian leadership would automatically lead to the neutralization of Hezbollah and the stabilization of the Lebanese border, ultimately facilitating lasting peace. The Prime Minister stated he has coordinated these views with President Trump on multiple occasions.

Netanyahu maintains that targeting the Iranian regime is the only effective way to stop the ongoing regional hostilities. While the Israeli leadership is moving forward with these stated objectives, there have been no official responses or policy adjustments announced by the U.S. administration following these specific reported conversations.