Trump and Netanyahu at Odds  Over Iran Ceasefire

The halt in direct military exchanges between Israel and Iran has shifted attention from the battlefield to diplomacy, with signs emerging of a policy divide between Washington and Jerusalem. Trump has focused on maintaining the ceasefire and advancing negotiations aimed at reducing tensions across the Middle East after months of conflict involving Israel, Iran and Iranian-backed groups. Netanyahu, meanwhile, has continued to stress the need for military pressure against Iran and its regional allies, arguing that security threats remain despite the cessation of direct attacks between the two countries.

The differences became more apparent following reports that Trump privately urged Netanyahu not to take actions that could jeopardize the ceasefire. According to multiple media reports, Trump warned Netanyahu that Israel could find itself without U.S. backing if it took steps that reignited the conflict, reflecting White House concerns that renewed fighting could undermine diplomatic efforts and destabilize the region. The warning followed Israeli military operations linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon that prompted fears of a broader escalation and raised questions about the durability of the truce.