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Trump Says Netanyahu ‘Knows Who the Boss Is’ Ahead of Potential White House Meeting
US President Donald Trump has said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could visit the White House in the coming weeks, signalling a possible reset in ties amid growing disagreements over Iran, Lebanon and regional security issues.
US President Donald Trump has said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could visit the White House in the coming weeks, signalling a possible reset in ties amid growing disagreements over Iran, Lebanon and regional security issues.
Speaking in a brief interview with Axios, Trump said Netanyahu had requested a meeting that may take place shortly after his return from the NATO summit.
“We get along very good. Netanyahu knows who the boss is,” Trump said, referring to himself.
If the visit takes place, it would mark the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since their February discussions at the White House, where Netanyahu reportedly presented plans related to a joint strategy against Iran.
Netanyahu Congratulates Trump, Both Agree to Meet
According to the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu spoke with Trump on Friday to congratulate the United States on its 250th Independence Day celebrations.
During the conversation, Netanyahu described the US as a key defender of global freedom and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to maintaining close ties with Washington.
The statement added that both leaders agreed to meet soon in the United States, although an exact date has not yet been finalised.
Israeli officials indicated that a meeting next week may be difficult because of Trump’s planned visit to Turkey for the NATO summit on July 7-8, suggesting that talks could instead happen in the following weeks.
Differences Over Iran and Lebanon Continue to Grow
Despite their long-standing political relationship, recent reports suggest that differences between Trump and Netanyahu have widened over several major issues, including Iran, Lebanon and broader Middle East security concerns.
According to Axios, some members of Trump’s inner circle have become increasingly sceptical about Netanyahu’s approach in recent months.
A US official quoted in the report claimed that several of Trump’s close advisers believe Netanyahu miscalculated on a number of key regional matters.
Trump had also reportedly criticised Netanyahu during a phone conversation last month over Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, expressing frustration over the escalation.
Iran Talks Remain a Key Focus
The report further stated that Trump recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding extending the ceasefire with Iran while supporting renewed nuclear negotiations.
He has also encouraged Israel to reduce military operations in Lebanon and consider a framework that would include an initial withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
Trump claimed that Iranian officials remain interested in reaching an agreement, saying negotiations have temporarily paused due to developments surrounding the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
“They are begging to make a deal,” Trump said, according to Axios.
He added that both sides had agreed to avoid military action during the current pause in negotiations.
Political Importance for Netanyahu
A potential White House meeting could carry significant political weight for Netanyahu as Israel moves closer to its October elections.
Recent opinion polls suggest the Israeli Prime Minister is facing increasing competition from political rivals, making any high-profile diplomatic engagement with the United States particularly important ahead of the vote.
While no official date has been announced, a meeting between Trump and Netanyahu would likely attract global attention, given the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the evolving dynamics between Washington, Jerusalem and Tehran.
