Has Donald Trump cut contact with one of his closest friends, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu? Here's the reason cited in reports
Trump cuts ties with Netanyahu
over alleged manipulation, says Israeli media-
In a surprising development, Donald Trump has reportedly cut off direct communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a report by Israel's Army Radio, as cited by Anadolu news agency. The decision is believed to stem from concerns that Netanyahu may be manipulating the U.S. president — a move that insiders say Trump viewed as both personal and political betrayal.
#Operation Sindoor
The damage done at Pak bases as India strikes to avenge Pahalgam
Why Pakistan pleaded to end hostilities
Kashmir's Pahalgam sparks Karachi's nightmare
Why did Trump suddenly cut contact with Netanyahu?
The tipping point, according to Israeli journalist Yanir Cozin, came when Trump's close aides warned Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer that the president believes Netanyahu is "playing him." Cozin shared the information in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday.
An Israeli official told Army Radio that Dermer's tone in recent talks with top U.S. Republican figures was 'arrogant and unhelpful.' This fueled speculation and frustration among Trump's inner circle. They reportedly advised Trump that Netanyahu was trying to manipulate him, and that perception didn't sit well with the president.
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'There is nothing Trump hates more than being portrayed as a fool or someone being played,' the official noted. 'That's why he decided to cut contact with Netanyahu.'
What role did Israel's strategy on Iran and Yemen play in the fallout?
Beyond personal frustrations, U.S.-Israel relations have been strained by policy disagreements. Cozin pointed out that Israel's failure to present a clear strategy on Iran and the Houthis in Yemen has contributed to the growing rift. Washington has been pushing for a roadmap, especially amid rising tensions in the Middle East, but Israeli leadership hasn't delivered a cohesive plan, which has not helped Netanyahu's standing with Trump.
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Is Gaza another sticking point between Trump and Netanyahu?
Yes, the ongoing conflict in Gaza has further strained U.S.-Israel coordination. According to Army Radio, Netanyahu's government has not come forward with a solid proposal regarding the Gaza Strip, a situation that has drawn criticism from both U.S. officials and Israeli media.
This lack of direction has reportedly frustrated Trump's team, who expected stronger leadership and vision from Netanyahu on issues central to regional stability and U.S. foreign policy interests.
How are Republican insiders reacting to Dermer's approach?
Another key element in this story is the behavior of Ron Dermer, Israel's Strategic Affairs Minister and a longtime Netanyahu ally. His conversations with senior Republican leaders in the U.S. have been viewed as presumptive and overbearing, according to sources.
This attitude, according to Israeli officials quoted by Army Radio, only deepened the impression among Trump's allies that Israel was overstepping boundaries and trying to dictate Trump's moves, especially on foreign policy matters. That perception may have turned the tide for Trump, who often values loyalty and personal image over traditional diplomacy.
Could this impact future US-Israel relations under Trump?
Without direct communication, any future cooperation may have to go through intermediaries or new Israeli leadership, especially if Netanyahu's government continues to face criticism for its handling of regional threats and internal political challenges.
FAQs:
Q1: Why did Trump cut ties with Netanyahu?
Trump believes Netanyahu was manipulating him, according to Israeli media.
Q2: What caused Trump's frustration with Israel?
Israel's unclear plans on Iran, Yemen, and Gaza worsened the situation.
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