Trump Confirms Harsh Words Toward Netanyahu, Calling Him Crazy and Ungrateful

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he previously referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as ‘crazy’. This confirms reports by Axios, which cited officials describing a telephone conversation filled with profanity between the two leaders.

In an interview broadcast on Wednesday, Trump was blunt in admitting he insulted Netanyahu, even calling him ungrateful. “I did say it. I won’t say that I am angry,” he stated. “I am just slightly disturbed by his continuous fighting stance with Lebanon, you know.”

However, Trump quickly added that his relationship with Netanyahu is actually proceeding very well, asserting that their bond remains extremely strong.

Previously, Axios reported that the telephone communication took place on Monday. The report alleged that Trump told Netanyahu, “You are truly crazy. You would be in prison if it weren’t for me. I am the one who saved your position. Everyone hates you now. Everyone hates Israel because of this.”

Trump’s anger reportedly stemmed from Israeli attacks in Lebanon over the weekend, which he viewed as an escalation that threatened his peace negotiations involving Iran.

In response, Netanyahu, when asked about the Axios report, declined to provide specific details regarding the contents of the call. However, he emphasised that his diplomatic relationship with Trump remains unchanged. Speaking in an exclusive interview with CNBC International, Netanyahu described the dispute as a common dynamic within a close relationship. He continued to praise Trump, calling him Israel’s best ally.

“We have the same goals. Sometimes, as in the best of families, you have these tactical differences,” Netanyahu said. “He has been the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House, and he respects me; I respect him. We always find ways to resolve our differences.”