Israeli President Isaac Herzog told ABC News on Thursday that Israel is capable of defeating Iran without US support but stressed that dismantling Iran's nuclear program is in the interest of the entire "free world," including the US.

"It's only been a week since the war began," Herzog noted, warning that Iran's threat will not disappear "instantaneously." He described victory as the removal of Iran's nuclear capabilities. On US leadership, Herzog said he trusts President Donald Trump's judgment and expressed confidence he would "make the right decision."

When asked about Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Herzog said, "The ayatollah is the head of the snake," accusing him of long advocating for the destruction of Israel. While calling him a central figure in Iran's aggression, Herzog said "he is a major, major objective of dealing with. But, I cannot say that the ayatollah is a part of our war objectives."