**Title: Trump Allegedly Threatened Netanyahu with 'Divorce' Over Peace Negotiations**
In a revealing account from a new book by New York Times reporters Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan, former U.S. President Donald Trump is reported to have threatened Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a "divorce" between the two nations during a phone call in September 2025. This exchange occurred amid Trump's push for Israel to accept his peace plan for Gaza, a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israeli relations.
The book, titled *Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump*, details the tense conversation, which included U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. During the call, Trump expressed his frustration with Netanyahu, stating, "Everybody’s sick of you, Bibi. All the Jews are sick of you. Even the two Jews on this call are sick of you." This comment highlights the strain in their relationship as Trump sought to advance his diplomatic agenda.
Trump's warning that Israel's refusal to accept the proposed deal could lead to a significant rift between the U.S. and Israel reflects the growing tensions that characterized their alliance during this period. He emphasized his support for Netanyahu in the past but indicated that continued delays in negotiations could jeopardize their longstanding partnership.
The backdrop of this confrontation includes a complex geopolitical landscape, particularly the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, which commenced on February 28, 2025. Initially, both leaders praised their cooperation in this military engagement. However, as the situation evolved and efforts to stabilize relations with Iran faltered, Trump's criticisms of Israel intensified. Reports indicate that he condemned Israeli military actions in Lebanon, expressing frustration over Netanyahu's decision-making and questioning his judgment.
The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu has been a focal point in U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Middle Eastern affairs. As both leaders faced mounting criticism domestically, they grappled with the implications of their actions on the international stage. Recent intelligence assessments reportedly warned Trump that Netanyahu might seek to undermine his attempts to secure a lasting peace agreement with Iran, adding another layer of complexity to their interactions.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the revelations from *Regime Change* underscore the intricacies of U.S.-Israeli relations and the challenges both leaders faced in navigating their respective political environments. The book's insights into their private conversations provide a glimpse into the pressures and expectations that shaped their diplomatic dealings during a tumultuous period.
The implications of these revelations may resonate beyond the immediate context of U.S.-Israeli relations, as they reflect broader themes of leadership, accountability, and the dynamics of international alliances. As the world watches the developments in the Middle East, the historical context of these interactions will likely influence future diplomatic efforts and the stability of the region.
In summary, the account from Haberman and Swan's book sheds light on a critical moment in the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu, highlighting the tensions that can arise even among close allies in the pursuit of complex geopolitical objectives.