Trump-Netanyahu Rift Emerges Over Possible Iran Deal, US Media Claims
A fresh disagreement appears to be brewing between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the future of relations with Iran, according to a report published by American news outlet Axios.
Citing both US and Israeli officials, the report claimed that Netanyahu reacted angrily during a recent phone conversation with Trump after the American president raised the possibility of a diplomatic agreement with Iran.
The phone call, which reportedly took place on Tuesday, focused on discussions surrounding a potential ceasefire and the launch of negotiations aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East.
Sources familiar with the matter said Netanyahu remains highly skeptical about entering talks with Tehran and believes pressure on Iran should continue until its military capabilities are significantly weakened.
According to American officials quoted in the report, Trump informed Netanyahu that mediators are currently working on a preliminary framework that could eventually be signed by both Washington and Tehran. The proposed agreement would formally end hostilities and pave the way for a 30-day negotiation process.
The reported negotiations are expected to address several major issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, regional security concerns, and the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Axios further claimed that Israeli and American officials acknowledge clear differences between the two allies regarding the next phase of policy toward Iran. Israeli sources reportedly confirmed that disagreements over strategy remain unresolved.
US officials also alleged that Netanyahu appeared extremely frustrated following the phone call, reflecting growing tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv over how to handle the Iran crisis.
While the Israeli leadership is said to favor maintaining strong military pressure on Iran, the Trump administration is reportedly pushing for diplomacy and negotiations in an effort to prevent further escalation in the region.