U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after strikes on Lebanon. According to media reports, during a phone conversation, the White House chief accused the Israeli leader of excessive escalation of the conflict and warned of possible consequences for Israel's international standing.
According to Axios, citing sources, the conversation between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu was extremely tense. The publication's sources claim that the U.S. president was dissatisfied with Israel's actions in Lebanon and used harsh language towards the prime minister.
Sources report that Trump called Netanyahu "crazy" and stated that his actions were increasing Israel's international isolation. Additionally, the American leader allegedly tried to dissuade the Israeli prime minister from striking Beirut, warning of possible political consequences.
One of the publication's sources claims that Trump acknowledged Israel's right to self-defense after attacks from Hezbollah, but believed that in recent days the Israeli authorities had escalated the confrontation too much.
According to Axios, during the conversation, Trump also reminded Netanyahu of his support during the corruption trial. One source quotes the American president as saying that he helped the Israeli prime minister avoid serious consequences.
According to sources, the conversation quickly turned tense. At one point, Trump reportedly exclaimed:
What the hell are you doing?
One of Axios's sources conveyed the president's words even more harshly:
You’re crazy as hell. You’d be in jail if it weren’t for me. I’m saving you. Everyone hates you right now.
According to another source familiar with the conversation, Trump was so irritated that he raised his voice several times and demanded an explanation of Israel's further plans in Lebanon.
Despite the disagreements, Trump and Netanyahu continue to closely interact on Middle Eastern issues, including the situation regarding Iran. However, one American official described this conversation as one of the most difficult between the two leaders since Trump returned to the White House.
After the conversation, Netanyahu stated that he warned the American president of Israel's intention to continue strikes on targets in Beirut in the event of new attacks from Hezbollah. At the same time, the Israeli army intends to continue operations in southern Lebanon.
According to Axios sources, the escalation of the situation has raised particular concern in Washington, as it could complicate negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. The publication notes that the memorandum being discussed by the parties provides for a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon.
After the conversation, Trump wrote on the social network Truth Social that negotiations with Iran are proceeding at a rapid pace. Earlier, the Iranian agency Tasnim reported that Tehran had allegedly suspended consultations with Washington in protest against Israel's actions.
According to American media, the disagreements between Washington and Tel Aviv regarding Lebanon are becoming increasingly noticeable. Nevertheless, both sides continue to coordinate actions on key regional issues, including negotiations with Iran and the situation in the Middle East.
