President Donald Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over planned strikes in Lebanon during the G7 summit in France [1, 2].

The public rebuke marks a significant tension in the U.S.-Israel relationship, occurring as the Trump administration pursues a peace agreement with Iran. A sudden escalation in Lebanon could jeopardize these diplomatic efforts and destabilize the region.

Trump said that Israel must act more responsibly to avoid further escalation [1, 2]. The comments come amid ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Trump said he has secured guarantees from Iran that the country will not develop nuclear weapons [3].

During the live broadcast at the G7 summit, Trump emphasized his influence over the Israeli state. "Without me, there would be no Israel," Trump said [1].

Despite the friction over Lebanon, Trump expressed openness to high-level diplomacy with Tehran. He said he would be honored to meet Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei if the two sides reach an agreement [4].

Reports on the relationship between the two leaders remain conflicted. Some reports indicate that Trump and Netanyahu are in lockstep regarding a war with Iran, while other reports suggest the U.S. President has slammed the Prime Minister over the Lebanon plans [2]. Additionally, some sources state that Trump persuaded Netanyahu to call off a strike on Beirut [5].

“"Without me, there would be no Israel."”

The public friction between Trump and Netanyahu suggests a shift in US foreign policy where the strategic goal of a peace deal with Iran takes precedence over Israel's immediate tactical military objectives in Lebanon. By publicly urging restraint, the US is signaling that further escalation may lack the full diplomatic cover of the White House.