Axios: Trump called Netanyahu “crazy” during heated phone call

US President Donald Trump sharply criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a phone call amid escalating tensions in Lebanon, Axios journalist Barak Ravid reported, citing US officials.

On Monday, June 1, Iran threatened to withdraw from talks with the United States in response to Israeli actions in Lebanon. During the call, Trump referred to Netanyahu as “crazy” and accused him of ingratitude, according to two sources. He also blocked an Israeli plan to carry out strikes on Beirut.

One US official said Trump told Netanyahu that carrying out threats to bomb the Lebanese capital would further isolate Israel internationally.

Two sources familiar with the conversation said Trump also referenced how he had helped Netanyahu avoid prison, an apparent reference to his support for the Israeli prime minister in connection with a pardon request.

“Trump told Netanyahu: ‘You’re a fucking crazy guy. Without me, you would be sitting in jail. Everybody hates you right now. Everybody hates Israel because of what’s happening,’” an American official summarised Trump’s remarks from the call.

A second source familiar with the details of the conversation said Trump was “furious” and at one point shouted at Netanyahu: “What the hell are you doing?”

A US official emphasised that Trump understands Hezbollah is firing on Israel and supports Israel’s right to self-defence, but in recent days he has felt that Netanyahu is pursuing a disproportionate escalation.

“In recent days, the president has concluded that Netanyahu has lost control,” the official said.

In addition to threats of strikes on Beirut, Israel has recently expanded its ground operation in southern Lebanon and seized new territory. Another US official added that Trump is concerned about the high number of civilian casualties in Lebanon and opposes the Israeli military striking entire buildings in Beirut to eliminate a single senior Hezbollah figure.

At present, Israel does not plan to carry out strikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut, according to a senior Israeli official.

Trump and Netanyahu have previously held several tense conversations, but have generally maintained good relations and close coordination on Iran and other issues. A US official said Monday’s call was one of the worst between the two since Trump returned to the White House in January 2025.

Trump’s anger reportedly stemmed from his belief that Netanyahu’s escalation in Lebanon risked derailing ongoing negotiations with Iran.

However, a second US official argued that the account of the conversation differed, claiming Trump firmly “put Netanyahu in his place.”

“Bibi said: ‘Okay, okay, just make sure everything is taken care of (regarding the ceasefire),’” the US official added.

By Jeyhun Aghazada