US President Donald Trump reportedly delivered a sharp rebuke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a phone call on Monday, June 1, over Israel's military actions in Lebanon, according to sources familiar with the exchange. The conversation took place at a sensitive moment for Washington's diplomatic efforts with Iran.
Trump Confronts Netanyahu
According to reports from Axios, Trump expressed frustration over Israel's recent military posture and warned that further escalation could damage Israel's international standing. One source quoted Trump as saying, "You're f*****g crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your a**. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this." Another official said Trump was visibly angry and demanded, "What the f**k are you doing?"
Concerns Over Iran Talks
Officials familiar with the matter said Trump acknowledged Israel's security concerns and Hezbollah's attacks but believed Israel's response had become excessive. The White House was particularly concerned about civilian casualties and extensive destruction from targeting individual Hezbollah figures. Sources indicated that Tehran had warned it could walk away from ongoing negotiations if Israel continued expanding operations in Lebanon.
Israel's Response
Following the call, an Israeli official indicated that Israel no longer intended to carry out a strike in Beirut. However, Netanyahu later issued a public statement maintaining Israel's position, saying he informed Trump that Israel would target locations in Beirut if Hezbollah attacks continued. "Our position remains the same," Netanyahu wrote.
Despite the dispute, US and Israeli officials have continued to coordinate on regional issues. Shortly after the call, Trump posted on Truth Social that negotiations with Iran were continuing "at a rapid pace."
