U.S. President Donald Trump clashed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over military operations in Lebanon, using profanity and threatening language during a Monday phone call.
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Donald Trump engaged in a heated telephone exchange with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, according to reporting by Axios, as tensions escalated over Israel's military operations in Lebanon.
During the call, Trump used profane language to express his opposition to Netanyahu's plans. According to White House officials cited anonymously by Axios, Trump told Netanyahu: "You're fucking crazy" and "You're completely insane." Trump also stated: "If it wasn't for me, you'd be in jail. I'm saving your ass. Now everybody hates you. Everybody hates Israel because of this."
The confrontation centered on Israel's renewed offensive in Lebanon. Trump demanded that Netanyahu refrain from advancing militarily toward Beirut, arguing that the Shiite militia Hezbollah had committed to halting attacks against Israel. According to the sources, Trump shouted at Netanyahu multiple times during the call, at one point demanding: "What the hell are you doing?"
Netanyahu rejected the pressure from the White House. The Israeli prime minister maintained that his administration's position remained unchanged and reiterated that Israel's military would continue to attack what he characterized as terrorist targets in Beirut if Hezbollah did not cease its attacks on Israel.
Two White House officials confirmed the substance of the call to Axios. The exchange reflected deepening disagreement between the Trump administration and the Israeli government over the scope and timing of military action in the region.
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