Former President Bill Clinton is sounding the alarm on the growing crisis between Israel and Iran, urging President Donald Trump to choose diplomacy over destruction. In a rare primetime interview, Clinton criticized Israeli leadership and warned that innocent lives are at stake if the U.S. pursues a path of unchecked military escalation.
Clinton Warns Against Civilian Casualties
Appearing on The Daily Show, Bill Clinton called on President Trump to “defuse” the growing conflict between Israel and Iran. Clinton emphasized the urgent need to protect innocent civilians, condemning what he described as the “outright constant killing of civilians.” He stopped short of accusing either side outright but strongly implied that current military strategies are putting too many non-combatants in harm’s way.
Bill Clinton urges Trump to ‘defuse’ Israel-Iran crisis, end ‘outright constant killing of civilians’ https://t.co/XEuoraSuwd pic.twitter.com/NwG8qcCryO
— New York Post (@nypost) June 19, 2025
Clinton also took aim at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of blocking efforts toward a two-state solution and failing to engage in serious negotiations with the Palestinians. “They’re not talking about peace,” Clinton said. “Under Netanyahu, they have no intention of giving the Palestinians a state.”
Global Leaders Call for Restraint
At the G7 Summit, President Trump initially resisted calls to issue a joint statement but eventually backed a resolution urging a ceasefire in Gaza and de-escalation with Iran. The statement reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself while stressing the need to protect civilian populations.
I was honored this week to welcome 38 new citizens to America.
This nation will never be perfect, but every day we can be better. To our newest fellow Americans: you are the symbol of better. You help us create a more perfect union.
Thank you for joining our country. pic.twitter.com/4XZ01GAAFn
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) June 12, 2025
Despite supporting the statement, Trump left the summit early amid rising hostilities. “This is big stuff,” he told reporters, referring to the ongoing strikes and military movements in the region. The decision to exit early raised eyebrows but signaled just how seriously the White House views the unfolding crisis.
Senate Pushes Back on Presidential War Powers
Meanwhile, in Washington, Senator Tim Kaine introduced a new bill requiring President Trump to obtain Congressional approval before launching military action against Iran. Citing the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the bill seeks to curb the president’s unilateral authority to engage in armed conflict without legislative oversight.
Supporters say the measure is critical to preventing a full-scale war, especially with U.S. allies concerned that an American intervention could further destabilize the Middle East. The proposal has gained traction as both Democrats and some Republicans grow wary of another drawn-out foreign conflict.
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G7 urges Middle East de-escalation as Trump makes hasty summit exit