President Donald Trump admitted he used strong language against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a phone call on Monday. The exchange centered on Israel’s military actions in Lebanon.
Trump made the admission in a recent interview. He said he felt perturbed by Netanyahu’s continued fighting with Lebanon. The call lasted about 15 minutes. Sources reported that Trump grew angry because the escalation threatened US negotiations with Iran.
Trump asked Netanyahu what he was doing and directed expletives at him. He also called the Israeli leader crazy and accused him of ingratitude. Trump later confirmed the details but noted that the two leaders worked well together overall as wartime figures.
The conversation took place amid Israel’s operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Trump urged Netanyahu to avoid major strikes on Beirut. He worried the moves would derail efforts to secure a peace deal with Iran over its nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz.
After the call, a fragile truce followed. Israel agreed not to advance on Beirut while Hezbollah halted attacks. However clashes continued in some areas. Trump had earlier posted on Truth Social that he asked Netanyahu to turn troops around and thanked him for doing so.
The incident highlighted strains in the alliance. Trump stressed his positive relationship with Netanyahu. He described the prime minister as a close ally despite the disagreement. Reports indicated the call became increasingly heated as Trump pushed for de-escalation.
