Trump and Netanyahu Discuss Gaza Peace Proposal
On Friday, President Trump connected with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to talk about the administration’s peace proposal for Gaza. This call came amid tensions following a response from extremists to Trump’s initiative.
Despite Trump viewing the situation as a notable success in his efforts to resolve the conflict, Netanyahu seemed doubtful, interpreting this skepticism as a lack of backing. A U.S. official familiar with their exchange noted, “Bibi told Trump this isn’t something to celebrate and it didn’t mean anything.” Trump, for his part, responded by questioning Netanyahu’s negativity, insisting it was a victory.
Recent actions have reportedly put a strain on their relationship. A failed assassination attempt on Hamas members in Qatar resulted in the deaths of five Hamas personnel along with Qatari security guards, further complicating diplomatic ties between Israel and the Trump administration. An irritated Trump expressed frustration, remarking, “[Netanyahu’s] f*cking me.”
“Everyone, and I mean everyone – I’m angry with Bibi,” shared an official familiar with the ongoing negotiations.
A senior official at the White House suggested that Netanyahu may have resorted to risky strategies to bolster political support, influenced by concerns regarding his upcoming corruption trial. Furthermore, Trump’s advisor mentioned Netanyahu’s “strange” misconceptions about how U.S. media portray Israel.
During a call on September 30, Trump required Netanyahu to extend a public apology to Qatar’s Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jasim al Thani.
The White House has since acknowledged the incident but did not provide additional comments.
