President Trump’s Conversations with Netanyahu and Remarks on Iran Conflict

President Trump recently shared insights into his phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, indicating a generally positive dynamic although recent tensions led him to label Netanyahu as “crazy.” During an interview with The New York Post, Trump described their relationship as collaborative yet acknowledged his recent frustration over Israel’s military actions in Lebanon. Trump expressed irritation at Netanyahu’s persistent engagements with Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a group supported by Iran.

Reports have surfaced about a rift between the two leaders as the U.S.-Israeli initiated war against Iran continues. The Trump administration has excluded Israel from negotiations aiming to end the war, repeatedly advising Israel to cease conflict with Hezbollah. In a CNBC interview, Netanyahu admitted to “tactical disagreements” with Trump but refrained from discussing specifics, indicating that they always manage to resolve such issues.

During his New York Post interview, Trump also mentioned his interest in meeting with Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. He conveyed confidence that a meeting would occur eventually despite the lack of commentary from Iranian officials. Trump’s comments follow unverified reports claiming injuries to Khamenei, who might have been affected during the initial U.S.-Israeli strikes.

Regarding the progress in ending the conflict, Trump mentioned no urgency in re-opening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for oil and gas transportation, which has remained restricted by Iran since the war’s onset. When questioned about the possibility of the strait remaining blocked by Labor Day on September 7, Trump expressed uncertainty about the timeline.

Jonathan Wolfe contributed to the reporting, while Leo Sands provided corresponding coverage from London for the Breaking News Hub of The New York Times.