U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly became furious, even using strong language, in a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This outburst was due to worries that Israel’s military operations against Hezbollah, a pro-Iranian militant organization based in Lebanon, might disrupt talks between the U.S. and Iran. Experts believe this indicates a noticeable rift in the previously “unbreakable cooperation” between the two leaders.
The U.S. online news platform Axios, referencing several U.S. officials on the 1st (local time), stated that Trump strongly questioned Netanyahu during their call on the 28th of last month, asking, “What in the world are you doing?” The discussion reportedly focused on Israel’s increased military actions in Lebanon. Earlier, Iran had criticized Israel’s strikes in Lebanon as breaches of a ceasefire and cautioned about ceasing talks with the U.S.
As reported by Axios, Trump is said to have told Netanyahu, “You’re crazy,” and remarked, “You would be in prison if it weren’t for me.” This statement is seen as alluding to Trump’s previous political backing for Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges. A U.S. official shared with Axios that Trump said, “I’m saving you, but now everyone hates Israel.” A different source mentioned that Trump used profanity during the conversation, questioning, “What the hell are you doing?”
Trump’s strong response reportedly indicated concerns that Israel’s military activities might interfere with U.S.-Iran talks. The Iranian news agency Tasnim News also stated that Iran had halted communication with American officials.
Although recognizing Hezbollah’s threats, Trump reportedly considered Netanyahu’s military action as overly harsh. He reportedly voiced worry about the civilian deaths that occurred during Israel’s mission to eliminate Hezbollah leaders.
Axios added that Trump urged Netanyahu to halt plans for further airstrikes in Beirut, leading Israel to reportedly delay some attack strategies. Trump subsequently shared on his social media site Truth Social, “I had a beneficial conversation with Prime Minister Netanyahu” and mentioned, “There will be no strikes on Beirut.” Nevertheless, Netanyahu’s office released a statement reiterating, “If Hezbollah doesn’t cease its attacks, we will keep targeting locations in Beirut,” upholding his initial position. This has underscored the emerging but delicate difference between the U.S. and Israel regarding regional tensions.
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