• President Trump reportedly erupted at Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a heated phone call, accusing him of escalating the conflict in Lebanon and undermining U.S.-Iran negotiations.
  • According to sources familiar with the matter, Trump warned that a strike on Beirut would further isolate Israel internationally.
  • Israel subsequently signaled it would not carry out the planned attack on Beirut, marking a significant reversal.

The Call That Changed Course

President Trump reportedly launched a blistering attack on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a tense phone call on Wednesday, accusing him of recklessly escalating the conflict in Lebanon and jeopardizing delicate U.S.-Iran talks, according to people familiar with the matter.

“You’re fucking crazy,” Trump said, according to a source briefed on the conversation. The president warned that a planned Israeli strike on Beirut would “further isolate Israel” and complicate Washington’s efforts to negotiate with Tehran.

“Without a deal, you’ll be forced into a war you can’t win,” Trump added, according to the source. The White House and Prime Minister’s office declined to comment on the call.

A Sudden Reversal

Hours after the call, Israeli officials signaled they would not proceed with the planned strike on Beirut, which had been expected in the coming days. The reversal marks a rare public concession by Netanyahu under direct American pressure. “We are listening closely to our allies,” a senior Israeli defense official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The incident underscores growing friction between the two leaders as the conflict in Lebanon intensifies. Israel has accused Hezbollah of launching cross-border attacks, while the U.S. has sought to de-escalate to preserve chances for a broader diplomatic deal with Iran.

Market and Regional Reactions

Regional markets reacted cautiously to the news, with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange’s TA-35 index dipping 0.3% in afternoon trading. Brent crude oil prices edged lower, dropping 1.2% to $74 per barrel, as traders weighed the reduced likelihood of a broader conflict.

“The immediate risk of a major escalation has receded, but the underlying tensions remain,” said a geopolitical risk analyst at a London-based consultancy.

Efforts to reach Netanyahu or Trump for further comment were unsuccessful. The White House press secretary said the president is “committed to pursuing all diplomatic avenues” in the region.