President Trump’s Remarks on Relations with Netanyahu and Iran

President Trump recently shared insights into his discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite a generally positive working relationship, recent events led him to describe Netanyahu as “crazy.”

In an interview with The New York Post, Trump characterized their past collaboration as successful but acknowledged his frustration. This frustration stemmed from Israel’s ongoing military engagement in Lebanon, which he finds concerning.

Israel’s conflict is with Hezbollah, a militia backed by Iran. Trump’s comments came amidst reports of a widening rift between U.S. and Israeli leadership regarding the war with Iran. This conflict began with joint U.S.-Israeli strikes.

The Trump administration has excluded Israel from peace talks aimed at ending the conflict, while publicly urging Israel to halt its fight against Hezbollah.

“I was a little bit perturbed at his constantly fighting with Lebanon.”
– President Trump

Netanyahu acknowledged tactical disagreements with Trump but emphasized that they usually resolve such issues. He declined to give specific details.

Trump also expressed a desire to eventually meet with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. He mentioned potential future discussions but noted lack of confirmation from Iranian authorities.

Reports suggest Ayatollah Khamenei sustained injuries during the joint strikes, raising doubts about his willingness to meet. His public absence fuels these speculations.

Regarding negotiations to cease the ongoing war, Trump indicated no urgency to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil and gas transit route obstructed by Iran since the war’s onset. When asked if the blockage would persist until Labor Day, Trump responded, “I don’t know.”

Jonathan Wolfe provided additional reporting.
Leo Sands reports for the Breaking News Hub of The New York Times in London.