Tensions Grow Between Trump and Netanyahu Amid Embassy Killings and Gaza War
Politico Reveals Deepening Rift Over Israel Policy, Iran Talks, and Middle East Strategy as Trump Shifts Toward Gulf Allies.
Watan-A Politico report by Felicia Schwartz, Jake Taylor, and Eli Stokols reveals growing tensions between former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite Trump’s immediate condemnation of the recent killing of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington. The White House is treating the incident as domestic terrorism, while Netanyahu frames it as part of a broader war against Israel.
According to five current and former U.S. officials, the Trump-Netanyahu relationship has soured in recent weeks, with diverging views on Middle East crises and Netanyahu’s disrespectful approach frustrating Trump’s team. Though not officially severed, the relationship is described as strained and one-sided, with Trump increasingly distancing himself from Israeli demands.
An unnamed former Trump official stated that many in the administration view Israel as just another partner, not one that warrants special treatment. Netanyahu’s constant pressure and lack of diplomatic formality have reportedly irritated Trump, who prefers more structured relations like those with Gulf allies.
Trump Shifts Toward Gulf Allies as Frustration with Netanyahu Grows
While Trump sees the embassy killings as a reason to fight domestic anti-Semitism, Israeli officials label it “the eighth front” in the broader war against Hamas and Iran. Israeli Ambassador Yehiel Leiter called the attack part of a campaign to delegitimize Israel.
Trump and Netanyahu reportedly discussed Gaza and Iran during a call, but insiders say frustration is mounting inside the White House, especially as Netanyahu refuses to compromise. Trump has tried to broker ceasefires, lift sanctions on Syria, and even reopen Iran nuclear talks—all areas Netanyahu opposes.
Trump’s refusal to visit Israel during his latest Middle East tour was widely seen as a snub. He has focused instead on ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, viewing them as more reliable partners. These Gulf states are offering financial backing and support for Iran talks, while Netanyahu’s government resists diplomatic pressure.
Trump Prioritizes Gulf Ties as Gaza War Derails Israel Strategy
Trump once hoped Israel would deliver fast political wins, like Saudi normalization, but Israeli refusal to accept a permanent ceasefire or steps toward Palestinian statehood has stalled progress. A ceasefire he helped broker in Gaza collapsed in March, and Riyadh remains firm: no normalization without a Palestinian state.
Trump insiders say the former president is increasingly silent on Israel and prioritizing Arab allies who align with his goals. National Security Advisor voices vary—Marco Rubio and Stephen Miller push strong pro-Israel positions, while others like DNI Chief Tulsi Gabbard advocate caution.
Ultimately, Trump’s shifting stance reflects both personal and strategic recalibration. He views the Gaza war as an obstacle to his goals: rebuilding Gaza, expanding the Abraham Accords, and striking a nuclear deal with Iran. As one insider summed up: “Trump is now more committed to the Saudis and Emiratis than to Israel—surprising, but true.”
