Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Jerusalem is capable of defending its interests even in relations with its closest allies, including the United States, despite his high regard for the partnership with President Donald Trump, The Times of Israel reports.

“I greatly appreciate President Trump. He is our great friend in the White House,” Netanyahu said at a government meeting.

He noted the two countries’ “historic partnership” in countering Iran’s attempts to obtain nuclear weapons and emphasized that Israel will not allow Tehran to acquire nuclear arms regardless of whether an agreement is reached or not.

According to the prime minister, Israel acts solely on the basis of its own security considerations and “knows how to stand its ground even in the face of its closest friends when necessary.”

At the same meeting, Netanyahu rejected the 15-point plan for Gaza backed by Trump. According to him, the Hamas movement still retains the ability to attack Israel, but refrains from doing so because it understands the consequences of a retaliatory strike.

Netanyahu also said that Israel’s operations in Lebanon are ongoing. According to him, in recent days Israeli forces have eliminated several militants, including in the area of the Ali al-Taher ridge. The prime minister declined to disclose details, calling what is happening a “very important operation.”

“The security of all Israeli citizens is not negotiable. We stand firm in defending these interests,” Netanyahu said, adding that Israel is acting “for real, on the ground,” rather than engaging in political advertising.