Rumors has it that U.S. President Donald Trump has cut off communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid concerns in the White House that Tel Aviv could disrupt Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East.
Earlier, NBC reported growing tensions between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu, citing their divergent views on the future of the Middle East, particularly regarding the Gaza Strip.
This development follows a reported agreement between the United States and Yemen’s Houthi movement. If reports are to be believed, Trump appears intent on de-escalating tensions in the region, seeking a pause in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza during his high-stakes trip beginning Tuesday.
According to NBC, Trump opposes Netanyahu’s plan to expand military operations in Gaza, reportedly calling it a wasted effort that would hinder his broader strategy for the besieged territory.
Netanyahu, on the other hand, is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with the U.S. approach to Iran, particularly in light of ongoing nuclear negotiations and Washington’s recent deal with the Houthis. Under the agreement, the U.S. agreed to halt its intensive air campaign in exchange for the cessation of maritime attacks by the Iran-aligned group.
Is the U.S. finally pressuring Israel?
Trump dismissed his National Security Advisor Mike Waltz in May over alleged attempts to undermine the President and push for a conflict with Iran. Some analysts argue that Waltz’s removal signals a shift within the administration, with pro-diplomacy voices gaining influence over hawkish elements.
Subsequently, Trump publicly announced the deal with Yemen’s Ansarallah-led government on May 6 — a move that reportedly shocked Israeli leadership. Israeli media reported that Tel Aviv was taken aback by Washington’s decision to end operations against Yemen.
Nonetheless, the intricate nature of Washington politics makes it difficult to determine whether the reported rift between Trump and Netanyahu is genuine, or part of a calculated “good cop, bad cop” diplomatic strategy.
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