New Delhi, June 9 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel has halted its attacks on Iran, signalling a pause in hostilities after the first direct exchange of fire between the two countries since an April ceasefire.

Netanyahu's remarks came hours after US President Donald Trump publicly called on both sides to stop fighting amid fears that renewed clashes could trigger a wider regional conflict.

In his first public comments following the latest confrontation, Netanyahu indicated that active military operations against Iran had ceased for now.

"Right now, the fire has been halted," Netanyahu said.

However, the Israeli leader stressed that Israel remained prepared to defend itself if necessary.

"Israel h...