 "Trump suspects Netanyahu prolonging Gaza war for political gain, but unlikely to act: Report")
US President Donald Trump increasingly suspects that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is extending the war in Gaza for political gain and obstructing ceasefire efforts, according to The Atlantic report, citing two unnamed administration officials.
Despite these concerns, the officials said it is unlikely Trump will take any serious action against Netanyahu.
A White House official told the publication that “there is no significant rupture” in the relationship, adding, “allies can sometimes disagree, even in a very real way.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s stance is complicating President Trump’s efforts to stabilise the region and advance trade and business initiatives, reported The Atlantic.
According to the report, citing US officials, one reason for envoy Steve Witkoff’s current visit to Israel is to conduct an independent review of Israel’s aid delivery to Gaza, amid Trump’s rising concern over reports of a growing hunger crisis.
Despite feeling slighted by Netanyahu, President Trump’s frustration has not led to any major change in US policy.
He continues to hold Hamas responsible for the latest collapse in ceasefire negotiations and has declined to align with France and the United Kingdom, who this week pledged to recognise a Palestinian state if Israel fails to improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza and commit to a peace process.
On Thursday morning, seemingly trying to set aside his differences with Netanyahu, Trump wrote on Truth Social: “The fastest way to end the Humanitarian Crises in Gaza is for Hamas to SURRENDER AND RELEASE THE HOSTAGES!!!”
Impact Shorts
More ShortsA few weeks ago, President Trump and PM Netanyahu exchanged gestures of symbolic significance: Trump publicly criticised the “out-of-control” prosecutors handling Netanyahu’s corruption trial, while Netanyahu nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize he has long sought.
However, the goodwill from these moves quickly faded, overshadowed by deeper tensions between the two leaders.
In recent days, Trump has openly distanced himself from Netanyahu, rejecting his efforts to downplay Gaza’s famine. Disturbed by images of starving children, Trump sent envoy Steve Witkoff to pressure Israel on aid access.
The White House was also caught off guard by Israeli strikes in Syria and a missile that hit Gaza’s only Catholic church.
With inputs from agencies
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