Trump Slams Netanyahu Over Iran Deal, Then Announces Agreement Has Been Reached

U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu overnight, accusing him of actions that nearly derailed the agreement with Iran. In an interview with The New York Times, Trump said, “He is a very difficult man,” and added that Netanyahu should “say thank you very much” because, in his words, without the deal and without Iran being denied nuclear weapons, “Israel would not have held out for two hours.”

Trump linked his criticism to an Israeli strike in Beirut’s Dahieh district at a time when Washington was trying to forge understandings with Tehran. In a separate interview with The Wall Street Journal, he said, “Bibi should not have done it. I did not like it at all.” He described the attack as involving two small missiles that missed their target, warning that such exchanges could keep escalating endlessly in the Middle East.

At the same time, Trump tried to soften the dispute, saying Netanyahu supports the deal. “Bibi is fine with it,” he said, arguing that Iran must not be allowed nuclear weapons under any circumstances. The remarks came as tension rose in Jerusalem, where government ministers reacted angrily and, according to reports, said the message effectively normalizes firing at a sovereign state. In cabinet discussions, ministers called for tougher retaliation policy and said the “era of restraint is over.”

The criticism came during dramatic developments across the region. Trump announced that the deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran was now complete, said the Strait of Hormuz would be opened immediately, and declared an end to the American naval blockade. Iran simultaneously announced an immediate ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon. Trump said the “huge deal” would bring peace and security to the entire region, and added that the agreement is expected to be signed on Friday in Switzerland.