Trump Reportedly Angers Netanyahu Over Perceived Control Attempts

President Donald Trump has reportedly expressed renewed anger towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, viewing the Israeli leader's actions as an attempt to manipulate and control him. This friction marks a significant strain on the relationship between two leaders who have historically been close allies.

According to Axios, a recent incident involved White House staff being surprised by Israeli media reports stating Netanyahu would visit Trump on July 13. While Trump had previously suggested Netanyahu could visit after his NATO trip, the meeting did not materialize, leading to a perception that Netanyahu was pushing for the encounter. "Our impression was Bibi was trying to force the meeting to happen," an internal source told Axios.

The rift extends beyond scheduling conflicts. Trump was reportedly furious after Netanyahu appeared on Fox News shortly before Trump's trip to Ankara. During the interview, Netanyahu criticized Trump's intention to sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. A White House official told Axios that Trump was "very angry" about the interview.

Sources indicate that the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu had been deteriorating for months. Trump's frustration stems partly from the lack of a definitive resolution to the Gaza invasion, which began in October 2023 and led to a significant Palestinian death toll. Reports suggest Trump harshly rebuked Netanyahu in a recent phone call, telling him, "everyone hates you."