President Donald Trump confirmed Wednesday that he sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a recent phone call regarding escalating tensions in Lebanon. The exchange, first reported by Axios, underscores growing friction between the two leaders amid regional conflicts involving Iran and Israel.
In a podcast interview with Miranda Devine of the New York Post, Trump admitted to using explicit language during the call, stating, 'I wouldn't say angry. I was a little bit perturbed at his constantly fighting with Lebanon, you know. At some point I said, "Bibi, we've got to stop this. We gotta stop it."'
Behind the Call
The conversation occurred after Iran threatened to withdraw from negotiations with the U.S. over Israel's military actions in Lebanon. Trump reportedly warned Netanyahu against plans to bomb Beirut, emphasizing that such a move would isolate Israel internationally. A U.S. official summarized Trump's remarks: 'You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this.'
Trump's intervention reportedly led Netanyahu to abort the bombing plan, followed by an announcement of a new ceasefire.
Despite the heated exchange, Trump expressed cautious optimism about maintaining a functional relationship with Netanyahu, noting, 'I like Netanyahu and have worked well with him.' The incident highlights the complexities of U.S.-Israel relations, particularly as both nations navigate broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
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