Intense political reactions in Israel were sparked by information published by Axios regarding a particularly charged phone conversation between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, focusing on Israeli military operations in Lebanon. While American sources claimed that Trump harshly criticized Netanyahu, even calling him “ungrateful,” circles close to the Israeli Prime Minister attempted to soften these impressions. According to them, while the conversation was difficult, it did not include personal attacks or offensive characterizations.
Sources close to the Prime Minister’s office reported that phrases such as those leaked to the media about “saving from prison” or Netanyahu’s international isolation were never said. They acknowledged, however, that there was tension and mutual displeasure over previous social media posts.
The Israeli version of the Trump & Netanyahu conversation
According to the Israeli version, Trump was annoyed by Netanyahu’s post that implied that despite the cancellation of specific attacks on Beirut, military operations continued. On the other hand, the Israeli Prime Minister reportedly expressed complaints about the American President’s post, which created the impression of complete cessation of operations, while –as he argued– Hezbollah continued to pose a threat to Israeli forces and residents of northern Israel.
Netanyahu’s associates also reported that Trump pointed out the difficulties Israel faces in defending its positions on the international stage, which, he said, fuels negative sentiment against the country. The communication, according to the same side, concluded with an informal understanding that Israel would not proceed with strikes on Beirut unless attacked on its own territory.
A different picture was presented by American officials, who speaking to Axios and Israeli Channel 12 described this particular conversation as one of the most difficult the two leaders have had since Trump’s return to the presidency.
According to the same sources, the American President reacted strongly to plans for escalating operations in Lebanon, warning that potential bombings in Beirut would further deteriorate Israel’s international position. At the same time, he reportedly argued that his own political support was crucial for Netanyahu, while certain leaks speak of particularly harsh expressions and raised voices during the conversation.
According to American reports, Trump appeared extremely irritated, at times raising his voice toward the Israeli Prime Minister, which demonstrates the depth of disagreement between the two sides over managing the situation in Lebanon.
