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The heated exchange came amid concerns in Washington that Israel’s military actions in Lebanon could further escalate regional tensions.
Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu.(Photo: Reuters/File)
US President Donald Trump reportedly lashed out at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a phone call over Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which had jeopardised ongoing negotiations with Iran to end the Middle East conflict.
According to an Axios report citing two sources familiar with the conversation, Trump called Netanyahu “crazy” and claimed he had played a key role in helping the Israeli leader navigate political and legal challenges, including his ongoing corruption trial.
A US official briefed on the call quoted Trump as saying: “You’re f***ing crazy. You’d be in prison if it weren’t for me. I’m saving your a**. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this.”
A second source familiar with the conversation said Trump was visibly furious and at one point shouted at Netanyahu, asking: “What the f*** are you doing?”
The heated exchange came amid concerns in Washington that Israel’s military actions in Lebanon could further escalate regional tensions and complicate diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
Iran had earlier called off the negotiations over Israel’s continued strikes in Lebanon. However, Trump intervened and spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hezbollah representatives. He later announced that Israel and Hezbollah would not attack each other.
After the call with Trump, Netanyahu said Israel will strike terror targets in Beirut if Hezbollah does not cease attacks. “This stance of ours remains unchanged. In parallel, the IDF will continue to operate as planned in southern Lebanon,” he added.
Later, President Trump hinted that an agreement with Iran to extend the ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz may be sealed “over the next week.”
In an interview with ABC NewsTrump said a peace agreement with Iran could be “even better than a military victory.”
When asked when the deal would happen, Trump said, “I think you’re talking about over the next week.”
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Saurabh Verma covers a wide range of beats for News18.com, including national, international and day-to-day news, with a particular focus on politics. He brings a fresh and analytical lens to his stor…Read More
Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
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