Despite Heated Phone Clash with Trump, Netanyahu Says US-Israel Alliance Remains Strong

Kuala Lumpur – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has moved to downplay recent tensions with US President Donald Trump, insisting that the relationship between the two countries remains solid and united in confronting the threat posed by Hezbollah.

The remarks come after Trump publicly confirmed a heated phone conversation with Netanyahu on June 1, during which he used strong language, including telling the Israeli leader, “Are you crazy? What are you doing? I helped you avoid prison.” Trump said he was frustrated with Netanyahu’s handling of the situation in Lebanon.

Speaking on Wednesday, Netanyahu sought to refocus attention on shared strategic goals. He described Hezbollah as an Iranian proxy that endangers both Lebanon and Israel through rocket and drone attacks. He stressed that disarming the group and demilitarizing Lebanon are essential for achieving peace between Israel and Lebanon — goals he said are shared by both him and President Trump.

“We must disarm Hezbollah and demilitarize Lebanon if we want to save Lebanon and achieve peace,” Netanyahu said. “I know this is a common goal shared by the president and myself, and that is what we must do.”

Trump had also told Netanyahu during the call, “Bibi, we have to stop this,” referring to the ongoing conflict.

Despite the public spat, Netanyahu emphasized that the US-Israel partnership remains close and aligned on key security objectives in the region. The comments appear aimed at reassuring both domestic and international audiences that the disagreement has not damaged the broader alliance.

The exchange highlights ongoing differences in approach between Washington and Jerusalem over how to handle the situation in Lebanon, even as both sides continue to view Hezbollah as a major threat.