Netanyahu-Trump relations said to be strained amid ongoing war in Gaza

NBC reported Sunday that in recent weeks, the relationship between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has become strained due to disagreements over the strategy regarding Hamas rule in Gaza and Iran, following their significant weakening.

Netanyahu’s decision to launch a new campaign in Gaza contradicts Trump’s plan

According to the report, President Trump is pushing for a deal in Gaza, after which it would be rebuilt as the “Riviera of the Middle East.”

Two sources added that in closed-door conversations, he referred to the new Israeli campaign in Gaza as a “futile effort,” arguing that it would complicate the reconstruction of the region.

A senior U.S. official stated that the U.S. is pressuring both Israel and Hamas to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza. Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer recently traveled to the White House to discuss the issue with senior officials.

An American source added that Trump has grown frustrated with Netanyahu’s decision to launch a new military operation in Gaza. According to the source, Trump believes the move undermines his plans to rebuild the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu commented on his relationship with Trump during a session of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee: “We talk every few days. Dermer was there just three days ago. I don’t think you’re going to hear about recognition of a Palestinian state – Trump will not endanger Israel. We didn’t ask for permission to strike the Houthis – the Americans volunteered to get involved and said they’d pull out once it stops.”

U.S. source: Israel concerned about any deal with Iran

According to a source who spoke with the American network, Israel is worried about any potential deal with Iran, while President Trump wants to dismantle Iran’s nuclear weapons facilities through a diplomatic agreement.

Multiple U.S. and Middle East sources familiar with the matter revealed that two recent public statements by Trump have caused Netanyahu to be uneasy.

Netanyahu was particularly disappointed on Wednesday when Trump stated that no decision had been made about whether Iran would be allowed to enrich uranium under a new nuclear agreement. A U.S. official said Dermer relayed Israel’s concern to Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, during his recent White House visit.

NBC also reported that the main source of tension between the leaders is Trump’s refusal to support military strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities, coupled with his intention to pursue a deal.

According to the report, Netanyahu is disheartened by Trump’s approach to Iran. Israel has made it clear to the U.S. that it opposes any deal that would leave Iran with the ability to enrich uranium.