ALBAWABA — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed reports of growing tensions between himself and U.S. President Donald Trump, saying the relationship remained strong despite recent disputes on regional developments.
In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said he and Trump often have disputes, but both have the same strategic aim. Any differences are resolved by straight, candid talks and both leaders eventually find common ground, he said.
“Trump is the leader of America and acts in the interest of America, I am the leader of Israel and act in the interest of Israel,” Netanyahu said, dismissing accusations that a chasm had opened between the two friends.
His comments come a day after Trump said Netanyahu had asked for a meeting at the White House and the U.S. president said the visit might take place as early as next week. Trump told Axios in comments about his connection with the Israeli prime that it was “very good,” adding that Netanyahu “knows who the leader is.”
But an Israeli official later said the meeting could be delayed until next week because Trump is due to visit Turkey for a NATO conference.
The comments come as sources say some of Trump’s closest aides have grown more critical of Netanyahu’s recent choices. Some top aides feel Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a series of strategic miscalculations in recent months, U.S. officials told media outlets. Trump allegedly blasted Netanyahu during a phone call about Israel's military activities in Lebanon.
Separately, Trump announced that the negotiations with Iran had been put on hold for one week during the burial rituals of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, saying that both sides had agreed not to take any military action while diplomatic efforts were temporarily on hold.
