Washington: President Donald Trump has reportedly grown increasingly frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over actions that are perceived to undermine Trump's efforts for a negotiated ceasefire with Hamas. Despite this tension, Trump is unlikely to confront Netanyahu publicly, according to a report.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump's frustration reached a peak last week following an Israeli strike on Hamas negotiators in Qatar, an operation that endangered delicate peace talks. In a private setting, Trump expressed his anger by stating, 'He's f-ing me,' in reference to Netanyahu, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, which cited officials familiar with the exchange.
Despite these intense private sentiments, Trump has refrained from publicly challenging Netanyahu. He continues to emphasize his role in the Abraham Accords and describes Netanyahu as a partner, even as Israel advances its military campaign in Gaza City. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Israel this week without issuing any new criticism, maintaining the administration's public stance.
The Wall Street Journal noted that Trump's reluctance to distance himself from Netanyahu is influenced by both political considerations and personal relations. Netanyahu remains a popular figure among Republicans and conservative media, and his government has made gestures to endear themselves to Trump, such as naming a seaside promenade after him.
Damian Murphy, a former aide to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, commented on the situation, saying, 'Netanyahu knows that, while the White House may grumble a bit, there really is no downside to an 'ask forgiveness, not permission' approach.'
Currently, Trump's pressure remains aimed at Hamas, with warnings of increased violence unless the group releases hostages and disarms. Analysts point out that Netanyahu's strategy for military victory contrasts with Trump's preference for a diplomatic achievement that he can present on the international stage.
Former Israeli ambassador Michael Oren suggested that Trump's anger might be temporary. 'The chances are, if our operation in Doha succeeded, Trump wouldn't have condemned it; he would have taken credit for it,' Oren stated to The Wall Street Journal, adding, 'He likes winners.'