Trump’s statement sparks tension with PM Netanyahu after call to halt strikes on Lebanon

Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, relations between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have come under strain. The situation escalated after Trump publicly called for a halt to attacks on Lebanon, prompting a sharp reaction from Israel. The US President later issued clarifications and, in a bid to ease tensions, praised Israel in a post on Truth Social.

“Israel is a Great Ally,” Says Trump Amid Rising Strains

Amid the Iran crisis, tensions between Israel and the United States have intensified. Trump’s statement calling for a halt to strikes in Lebanon reportedly angered Netanyahu.

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In a fresh post, however, the US President described Israel as a strong ally of the United States.

In a message on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Whether people like Israel or not, they have proven to be a GREAT Ally of the United States of America. They are Courageous, Bold, Loyal, and Smart and, unlike others that have shown their true colors in a moment of conflict and stress, Israel fights hard and knows how to WIN!”

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Order to Halt Strikes Triggers Confusion in Israel

Trump’s post suggesting that Israel had been prevented from carrying out airstrikes in Lebanon surprised Netanyahu and his advisers, as it appeared to contradict the ceasefire understanding between Israel and Lebanon. Israeli officials reportedly sought clarification from the White House.

The remarks were interpreted by some as President Trump asserting direct authority over Israeli military action, though he has often used social media in the past to issue similarly forceful statements.

Enough is Enough: Trump Reiterates Position

In another post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Israel will no longer bomb Lebanon. The US has forbidden them from doing so. Enough is enough."

In an interview with foreign media, he reiterated his position, saying, "Israel has to stop. They can’t keep blowing up buildings. I won’t allow it."

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Following this, Israeli officials, including Israel’s Ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter, reportedly examined whether there had been a shift in US policy. They sought clarification from the White House, maintaining that Trump’s remarks did not align with the existing ceasefire agreement.

A US official, speaking to the foreign media, later clarified that the agreement prohibits offensive military actions but preserves Israel’s right to self-defence against imminent or ongoing threats.

Kamala Harris Criticises US Involvement

Separately, former US Vice President Kamala Harris also reportedly criticised Israel and the broader situation involving Iran. Speaking on the strikes, she said the US had been drawn into a conflict the American public did not want.

Key things to know

• Trump’s call to halt strikes on Lebanon sparked tension with Netanyahu.
• Israel sought clarification from the White House over the statement.
• Trump later called Israel a "great ally" on Truth Social.
• He reiterated that Israel must stop airstrikes, saying, "I won’t allow it."
• Kamala Harris criticised US involvement in the ongoing conflict.