U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly cut off communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over suspicions that the Israeli leader was attempting to manipulate him, according to multiple Israeli media sources.
Yanir Cozin, a correspondent for Israeli Army Radio, stated on X that Trump’s decision stemmed from his belief that Netanyahu was using him for political leverage. The move signals a growing rift between the two longtime political allies, particularly on Middle East strategy.
No formal statements have been issued by officials in Washington or Tel Aviv, but Cozin’s comments align with a report from Israel Hayom, a right-leaning newspaper, which highlighted rising tension and mutual disappointment between the two figures.
Cozin further noted that Trump is now determined to move forward on regional matters—especially regarding Saudi Arabia—without waiting for Israeli input. The turning point reportedly came after a meeting in April in Washington, where Israel's Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer advised Republican lawmakers on what Trump "ought to do." That interaction reportedly infuriated Trump, who viewed it as an overstep by Netanyahu's inner circle.
Sources quoted by Israel Hayom claimed that Trump now sees Netanyahu as an obstacle, accusing him of stalling important decisions related to potential normalization deals with Gulf states. Trump is said to be prioritizing U.S. interests and accelerating diplomatic efforts in the region independently.
This breakdown marks a significant departure from their previously close cooperation and could alter the strategic calculus in ongoing U.S.-Middle East diplomacy.
Source: Middle East Monitor
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