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Netanyahu declines comment on Trump's alleged expletives, downplays friction

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Context piece
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to comment on reports of U.S. President Donald Trump using expletives during a recent call.
  • Netanyahu downplayed reports of friction, stating that while tactical differences exist, they agree on major issues.
  • He praised the U.S. "counter-blockade" of Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz as "genius" and effective.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has addressed reports that U.S. President Donald Trump used expletives during a recent phone call, stating he would not comment on the specifics. The controversy arose from a report claiming Trump called Netanyahu "crazy" during a call on April 1st, which Trump later acknowledged in an interview.

I will not comment on the details.

โ€” Benjamin NetanyahuResponding to a question about reports of Donald Trump using expletives during a recent phone call.

Despite the reported friction, Netanyahu sought to downplay any significant discord between the two leaders. He asserted that while tactical differences may occur, they share agreement on major issues. "We always find a way to solve problems as good friends," Netanyahu said, adding that even if they disagree in the morning, they can find common ground by the afternoon. He revealed they speak "every other day" and share common goals.

There are tactical differences, but on major issues, we agree.

โ€” Benjamin NetanyahuAddressing reports of friction with Donald Trump.

Netanyahu also lauded the U.S. response to Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz, describing the American "counter-blockade" as "very effective" and a "genius idea." He indicated that alternative routes are being developed to mitigate energy supply shortages caused by the situation. Regarding a potential ceasefire with Iran, Netanyahu characterized the situation as a "tactical game," suggesting Iran is aware that full military action could resume if necessary, and that both Israel and the U.S. military are prepared.

We always find a way to solve problems as good friends. Even if we disagree in the morning, we can find common ground in the afternoon.

โ€” Benjamin NetanyahuDescribing his relationship with Donald Trump.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.