US President Donald Trump reportedly launched a fierce verbal attack on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a phone call on Monday, according to a report by Axios citing two US officials and another source familiar with the conversation.
The call between Trump and Netanyahu centred on Israel’s escalating military operations in Lebanon, with Trump allegedly criticising Netanyahu’s handling of the situation.
Claims of anger and strong language
According to the report, Trump described Netanyahu as “crazy” and accused him of ingratitude, while also claiming he had played a key role in supporting Netanyahu’s political survival.
Sources said Trump expressed frustration over Israel’s actions, including reported plans for strikes in Beirut, which were later blocked.
One source quoted Trump as saying: “What the hell are you doing?”
Concerns over regional escalation
The reported exchange came hours after warnings from Iran that continued Israeli operations in Lebanon could undermine ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
US officials reportedly raised concerns over the potential expansion of Israeli ground operations in southern Lebanon and the high number of civilian casualties.
There were also warnings about possible strikes in Beirut targeting Hezbollah commanders.
Israel denies change in military posture
Despite the reported tensions, an Israeli official told Axios that Israel is no longer planning strikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut.
However, Netanyahu later stated publicly that Israel would proceed with attacks if Hezbollah continued targeting Israeli positions.
“We have not changed our position,” he said.
US–Iran negotiations factor
Sources cited in the report say the Trump-Netanyahu call was influenced by concerns that escalation in Lebanon could disrupt ongoing US–Iran negotiations.
Trump later posted on Truth Social that talks with Tehran were “moving very rapidly”.
According to reports, a draft agreement under discussion includes provisions linked to ending hostilities in Lebanon, further increasing diplomatic sensitivity around the conflict.
Also read: Iran US talks suspended over attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon
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