Trump furious with Netanyahu over Beirut strike that jeopardized Iran peace deal
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- President Trump expressed anger at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for ordering an airstrike on Beirut just hours before a planned Iran peace deal announcement.
- The strike, which killed at least three people, jeopardized the ceasefire extension and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
- Trump and Netanyahu's relationship has been strained by differing objectives in the Iran war, with Trump seeking a swift exit and Netanyahu pushing for "total victory."
President Trump reacted with fury to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to launch airstrikes on Beirut, an action that occurred just hours before a significant Iran peace deal was set to be announced. The strikes, which resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, threatened to derail the planned extension of a ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, critical for global oil prices. Trump publicly condemned the attack on social media and privately expressed his extreme displeasure to Netanyahu.
This morning's attack on Beirut should not have happened, particularly on a special day when we are so close to a Peace Deal with Iran.
According to reports, Trump questioned Netanyahu's judgment, reportedly asking, "What the f*** are you doing?" and "Why did Bibi have to do a f*****g attack?" He conveyed his anger, stating, "I was so pissed off. I let him know. He has no f*****g judgement." This exchange highlights a dramatic shift in the relationship between the two leaders, which has often been public and volatile.
What the f*** are you doing?
The core of the disagreement stems from their divergent strategies and goals concerning the ongoing war with Iran. President Trump, who campaigned on ending "forever wars," has appeared eager to withdraw U.S. forces and stabilize global energy markets, especially with midterm elections approaching. Conversely, Netanyahu views confronting Iran as his "life's work" and has consistently advocated for "total victory" over the Iranian regime, aiming to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Why did Bibi have to do a f*****g attack?
Netanyahu's actions may also be influenced by domestic political pressures, including an upcoming election and a looming corruption trial. Furthermore, thousands of Israelis remain displaced due to rocket attacks from Hezbollah, and there is significant public demand within Israel to continue the fight until Hezbollah is completely neutralized. This complex geopolitical situation underscores the deep divisions between the U.S. and Israeli leadership regarding the war's objectives and endgame.
I was so pissed off. I let him know. He has no f*****g judgement.
Originally published by CBS News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.