Washington: The long-standing strategic partnership between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has significantly deteriorated while the White House pursues a diplomatic exit from the war with Iran, the Wall Street Journal reported. Trump reportedly questioned Netanyahu's aggressive military tactics, particularly Israeli strikes in Lebanon, during a tense phone call, urging the Israeli leader to 'stop blowing up buildings.'

According to Anadolu Agency, a senior US administration official revealed that discussions between the two leaders often involved Netanyahu advocating for more military action, which Trump found exhausting. The US president has grown skeptical of Netanyahu's claims, frequently fact-checking him with aides, a practice he did not engage in previously.

In a candid exchange, Trump allegedly labeled Netanyahu as 'crazy' and suggested that without US support, he might be 'in prison,' alluding to charges of corruption and bribery faced by the Israeli leader. The friction between the two leaders has intensified as Washington seeks a peace deal with Tehran, sidelining Israeli input in the process.

The report highlights that while Netanyahu advocated for continued strikes on strategic targets, Trump was more concerned about the economic consequences of the conflict, fearing a potential global downturn. Some White House officials speculated that Netanyahu might be attempting to extend hostilities to bolster his domestic political standing.

Despite these tensions, Trump recently described the relationship with Netanyahu as an "amazing partnership," acknowledging tactical differences but reaffirming the alliance's hierarchy. He advised Netanyahu to adopt a "softer touch" and emphasized that the US remains the "big partner" in the relationship. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office did not comment on the report, while a White House official maintained that bilateral relations were "great," asserting that no leader pressures President Trump into action.