Trump Praises Netanyahu as 'Warrior PM' Even as US Intel Warns of Iran Deal Risk

US President Donald Trump has praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "warrior prime minister" despite reports of growing tensions between the two leaders over Israel's military operations in Lebanon and concerns surrounding the Iran peace agreement. Speaking after unveiling a replacement Air Force One aircraft gifted by Qatar near Washington, Donald Trump said the United States and Israel had "fought very well" against Iran and credited Benjamin Netanyahu for his leadership during the conflict.

Donald Trump described the relationship between the two countries as strong and said Benjamin Netanyahu deserved recognition for his role during the war. In a separate interview with Axios, the US President said he maintained a good relationship with the Israeli leader but added that "we have to keep him a little bit sane." Donald Trump also claimed that Israel respected his leadership and suggested he could influence Israeli military decisions if necessary.

The remarks come after reports that Donald Trump had privately expressed frustration with Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel's campaign against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon despite an agreement with Tehran aimed at ending the conflict. According to Axios, Donald Trump allegedly criticised the Israeli Prime Minister during a phone call earlier this month, blaming continued military operations for damaging Israel's international standing and disrupting peace efforts.

Also Read: Trump Says Netanyahu Almost Derailed US-Iran Nuclear Agreement

Meanwhile, a report by The Washington Post, citing current and former US officials, said American intelligence agencies have warned the Trump administration that Benjamin Netanyahu could take steps that might undermine the peace agreement with Iran. Intelligence assessments reportedly suggest Israel intends to continue military operations against Hezbollah, raising concerns over the long-term stability of the recently negotiated arrangement.

The report also stated that Benjamin Netanyahu's political position ahead of Israel's national elections later this year could influence his security decisions. According to a US official familiar with the intelligence assessment, the Israeli leader is under pressure to demonstrate that he will not withdraw troops from Lebanon and remains committed to maintaining a tough stance against Hezbollah and Iran.

Amid these developments, Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire on Friday following mediation efforts by the United States and Qatar after days of deadly exchanges in Lebanon. Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter said Israel remains committed to the ceasefire provided Hezbollah fully honours the agreement and halts hostilities. Reports also indicate that US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi are expected to meet in Switzerland for further diplomatic talks aimed at strengthening the broader Iran peace process.

Also Read: Trump-Netanyahu Rift Widens As Iran Deal Push Tests Longstanding Political Alliance