Donald Trump confirmed he used harsh language during a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel's military actions in Lebanon. In a Wednesday interview with the New York Post, Trump was asked if he had angrily told Netanyahu, "Are you crazy? What are you doing? I helped you stay out of jail," to which he responded, "I did." Trump said he was angered by Israel's threats to bomb Beirut, fearing it could disrupt broader peace efforts in the Middle East. He referred to Netanyahu by his nickname, saying, "Bibi, we have to stop this."
The conversation took place on Monday, according to reports from Axios and ABC News, which first detailed the exchange. Trump claimed the call did not damage his relationship with Netanyahu, adding, "We've done well together. I like Bibi a lot." Some Israeli media outlets have challenged the accuracy of the reports about the conversation. A White House official directed journalists to Trump's Truth Social posts from Monday, where he stated that Netanyahu agreed to withdraw Israeli troops from Beirut.
Iran reportedly paused peace negotiations following Israel's military escalation in Lebanon. The wider conflict has roots in earlier attacks linked to Iran, which triggered regional fighting. Trump's remarks highlight tensions between the two leaders amid ongoing hostilities. The U.S. administration remains engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Trump claims he berated Netanyahu for risking peace by threatening Beirut, yet praised him moments later on social media. His conflicting tones in private and public reveal no clear stance on Israel's actions. Nigerians following the conflict see how volatile rhetoric from global leaders can shift diplomatic outcomes overnight. The pause in Iran's negotiations shows how one phone call might stall peace more than policy.
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