US President Donald Trump has publicly praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while fresh intelligence assessments reportedly suggest that Israel could take steps that may complicate a recently brokered peace arrangement with Iran.
Speaking near Washington after unveiling a replacement Air Force One aircraft gifted by Qatar, Trump highlighted the close ties between the United States and Israel and referred to their joint military campaign against Iran earlier this year.
"Obviously we fought very well with Israel, and we've had a great relationship with Israel. We were very formidable. And Bibi (Benjamin) Netanyahu, he's a warrior prime minister, and he should be acknowledged as that. They should give him credit," Trump said, reported Hindustan Times.
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Trump describes relationship with Netanyahu
Despite reports of tensions between the two leaders over Israeli military operations in Lebanon, Trump said he continues to maintain a strong relationship with Netanyahu.
"It's good, but we have to keep him a little bit sane," he told Axios, per a report by Hindustan Times.
When asked whether he could influence Israeli military actions in the region, particularly any future strikes on Lebanon, Trump replied, "Yeah, I will be. I mean, they have a lot of respect for me, and they do as I say."
The remarks come weeks after Trump reportedly expressed anger over Israel's actions in Lebanon. According to Axios, Trump told Netanyahu during a June 1 phone call, "You're f***ing crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this."
Intelligence report raises concerns
According to a report by The Washington Post, US intelligence agencies have warned the Trump administration that Netanyahu may take actions that could undermine the peace deal with Iran.
The report, citing current and former US officials, said Israel appears determined to continue military operations against Hezbollah. Intelligence assessments reportedly suggest Netanyahu's political future is closely tied to demonstrating a tough stance against Hezbollah ahead of national elections later this year.
Officials also indicated that Israel is dissatisfied with elements of the Trump-backed peace memorandum, which they believe limit its broader strategy of maintaining pressure on Iran.
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Ceasefire announced, talks continue
On Friday, Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire following a series of deadly exchanges in Lebanon. A US official told AFP that the truce was brokered by American and Qatari mediators through discussions involving Israel and Iran.
Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi are reportedly travelling to Switzerland for further talks, signalling continued diplomatic efforts to stabilise the region.
