US President Donald Trump has publicly praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing him as a warrior prime minister, even as reports indicate growing concerns within the United States administration over Israel’s military strategy in the region.
Speaking near Washington after unveiling a replacement Air Force One aircraft gifted by Qatar, Trump highlighted the close relationship between the United States and Israel. Referring to the conflict involving Iran, US President said the two countries had worked together effectively and credited Netanyahu for his leadership.
Trump said Netanyahu should be recognised for his role, adding that he deserved credit for his actions during the conflict. His remarks came amid reports of differences between the two leaders over Israel’s military operations in Lebanon.
In an interview with a media outlet, Trump described his relationship with Netanyahu as positive but suggested that it required careful management. The US President also indicated that he believed he could influence Israeli military decisions in the region, stating that Israeli leaders respect his views.
According to media reports, Trump had previously expressed frustration over Israel’s military campaign against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon despite efforts aimed at securing a broader peace arrangement involving Iran. Reports also claimed that a tense phone conversation took place between Trump and Netanyahu earlier this month.
Meanwhile, a report citing current and former US officials said American intelligence agencies have warned the Trump administration that Netanyahu could take steps that might undermine the peace agreement with Iran.
The intelligence assessments reportedly suggested that Israel intends to continue military operations against Hezbollah. Officials quoted in the report said Netanyahu faces domestic political pressures ahead of national elections expected later this year, making security issues a key factor in his political strategy. The report further noted that some Israeli officials remain dissatisfied with aspects of the Trump-backed peace framework, believing it could weaken Israel’s objective of maintaining pressure on Iran.
Amid these developments, Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire on Friday after exchanging strikes in Lebanon. The truce was reportedly facilitated through mediation efforts involving the United States and Qatar.
Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, said Israel supports an immediate ceasefire provided Hezbollah adheres to the agreement and ends its hostilities. The latest ceasefire follows an earlier truce reached in April, which failed to fully halt attacks between the two sides.
Separately, reports indicated that US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi were expected to travel to Switzerland for further discussions related to the ongoing diplomatic process.