Trump acknowledges calling Netanyahu 'crazy' and says Israel is complicating peace talks with Iran

Former President Donald Trump admitted in interviews that he used strong language, including calling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu 'crazy,' during a recent phone call. Trump blamed Israel’s ongoing clashes with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon for stalling regional peace efforts with Iran, stating the conflict was complicating broader diplomatic talks. Despite the tension, Trump insisted his relationship with Netanyahu remained strong, emphasizing their shared wartime leadership experience. Netanyahu responded to Trump’s remarks in a CNBC interview, acknowledging occasional 'tactical disagreements' but affirming mutual respect and alignment on core objectives. The prime minister stated that he and Trump 'always find a way to work out our differences,' underscoring their collaborative approach to regional security challenges. Separately, Israel and Lebanon agreed to renew a ceasefire after U.S.-mediated negotiations in Washington. The joint statement outlined plans for 'pilot' security zones in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah operatives would be banned and Lebanese military forces would regain control. The ceasefire hinges on Hezbollah halting attacks and withdrawing from areas south of the Litani River, roughly 30 kilometers north of the Israel-Lebanon border. The agreement aims to create conditions for a broader peace deal, with both sides rejecting external interference in their future relations. The ceasefire discussions followed weeks of stalled talks, as Iran’s regional influence—including support for Hezbollah—has intensified conflicts in Lebanon and the Strait of Hormuz. Trump, when pressed on a timeline for resolving the Iran war, remained vague, suggesting the Strait of Hormuz could remain blocked through the U.S. Labor Day holiday. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for June 22, with diplomats aiming to finalize a comprehensive agreement to stabilize the region.