Trump: Netanyahu 'Knows Who the Boss Is'; Iranians 'Begging for a Deal'

U.S. President Donald Trump asserted his dominance in his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, "He knows who the boss is." Trump made these remarks in a brief phone interview with Axios on Saturday, following reports that Netanyahu had requested a White House meeting.

This potential meeting, possibly occurring next week after Trump's return from a NATO summit, would be the first encounter between the two leaders since February. That earlier meeting involved Netanyahu presenting his plan for a joint effort against Iran. However, sources close to Trump indicated growing skepticism and disappointment with Netanyahu's actions since their last discussion.

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He knows who the boss is.

According to Axios, some of Trump's closest advisors believe Netanyahu "screwed up on everything." Trump himself reportedly criticized Netanyahu verbally for escalating operations in Lebanon, calling him "crazy" and accusing him of ingratitude. These tensions have reportedly widened rifts within the Republican party regarding Israel and the ongoing conflict.

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Many of Trump's closest advisors believe that 'Bibi' screwed up on everything.

Despite these reported frictions, Netanyahu's office stated that the prime minister had called Trump on Friday to congratulate him on the U.S. Independence Day. During the call, Netanyahu emphasized the U.S. role as a guarantor of global freedom and Israel's appreciation for the close bilateral relationship. Both leaders agreed to meet soon in the United States.

The article also notes differing priorities and strategies between the two leaders, influenced by the ongoing war and regional issues. Trump has reportedly pushed Netanyahu to limit Israeli Defense Forces operations in Lebanon, as they were hindering negotiations with Tehran. Netanyahu, facing an upcoming election campaign in October where polls show him trailing, reportedly sees a meeting with Trump as crucial.

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During the conversation, the Prime Minister stated that the United States is a guarantor of global freedom and that Israel greatly appreciates the close relationship between the two nations.