Tensions are rising behind the scenes between former U.S. President Donald Trump$TRUMP
and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as frustration mounts within Trump’s inner circle over Israel’s escalating military operations in Gaza and Syria. While the two leaders have long presented a united front on foreign policy, recent developments suggest the alliance may be wearing thin.
According to a report by Axios, senior figures in Trump'$TRUMP s team have voiced concerns over what they describe as Netanyahu’s “erratic” and “overly aggressive” actions—particularly the controversial Israeli airstrike that struck the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza. One U.S. official reportedly said, “Bibi acted like a madman. He bombs everything all the time. This could undermine what Trump is trying to do.”
The remark reflects deep unease within Trump’s$TRUMP camp, where officials fear that Israel’s intensifying strikes are complicating Trump’s Middle East agenda, especially at a time when he’s seeking to position himself as a diplomatic dealmaker ahead of the 2024 election cycle.
Sources claim that Trump personally reached out to Netanyahu after the church bombing, demanding an explanation. Yet, despite high-level meetings and a formal dinner during Netanyahu’s recent visit to the U.S., insiders say no meaningful steps have been taken to de-escalate the Gaza conflict.
“He’s too itchy and too disruptive,” another source said. “Sometimes he’s like a child who just won’t behave.” The language may be blunt, but it underscores growing concern that Netanyahu’s actions are increasingly out of sync with the strategic goals of his most powerful ally.
Interestingly, Netanyahu has yet to address these criticisms publicly. Instead, he doubled down on his praise for Trump during his U.S. trip, even going so far as to nominate him for a Nobel Peace Prize—a move seen by some as an attempt to reinforce their political bond amid rising tensions.
Despite the fiery rhetoric behind closed doors, Trump has refrained from issuing any direct public rebuke of Netanyahu. However, the discontent within his ranks signals a potential shift in what has long been a close and mutually beneficial partnership.
As geopolitical uncertainties intensify in the Middle East, investors in both traditional and digital markets—such as Bitcoin ($BTC),
which has seen marginal declines in recent days—are watching closely. Any deepening of the U.S.-Israel rift could have broader implications not only for diplomacy but also for market stability.
The message from Trump’s camp is clear: patience is running out. Whether this leads to a public confrontation—or just quiet recalibration behind the scenes—remains to be seen.