Trump–Netanyahu Rift or Regional Deception?

In an unprecedented turn, U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to sign a ceasefire deal with Yemen’s Houthi movement—without prior coordination with Israel—has sent shockwaves through Tel Aviv. The situation escalated after the U.S. ambassador to Israel boldly stated, “We do not need anyone’s permission,” following Israel’s criticism of the deal, especially after rocket attacks from Yemen struck Israeli territory in recent days.

According to multiple Israeli reports, the Trump administration is deeply frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of attempting to obstruct Washington’s moves on Iran, Yemen, and Gaza. Observers suggest the White House is running out of patience with the Netanyahu government.

With Trump’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, analysts believe the U.S. president is keen to preserve his growing rapport with Gulf leaders, unburdened by Netanyahu’s ongoing aggression in Gaza and his refusal to allow humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave.

Tactical Rift or Real Break?

Despite widespread media speculation, Middle East Democracy Center’s Research Director, Seth Binder, downplayed the significance of any serious fallout. Speaking to Al Jazeera, he remarked:

“Every U.S. administration has had moments of friction with Israel. But ultimately, the support has remained nearly unconditional. Trump may be unpredictable, but his loyalty to Israel has been one of his few constants.”

However, Gregory Aftandilian, Middle East expert at American University in Washington, pointed to clear disagreements—especially over Iran. While Netanyahu vehemently opposes any U.S. nuclear deal with Tehran, Trump appears committed to pursuing one, leading to clear frustration in Tel Aviv.

Another contentious issue is the U.S. ceasefire deal with the Houthis. While the group agreed to halt attacks on American ships in the Red Sea, they did not agree to stop targeting Israel, which Netanyahu views as a strategic red flag.

Personal Friction Beneath Political Posturing?

According to former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State David Mack, speaking to Al Jazeera, the strain between Trump and Netanyahu may have deep personal roots:

“They don’t like each other—but understand the political damage that public disputes could cause. Their unity on Gaza and West Bank policies masks deeper rivalries.”

Asal Rad, a senior foreign affairs analyst, echoed this sentiment, citing increasing signs of mutual frustration. She noted that Netanyahu is dissatisfied with ongoing U.S.–Iran talks and the shifting U.S. position on uranium enrichment, while Trump is reportedly irritated by Israel’s refusal to end the war in Gaza or refrain from pushing for direct strikes against Iran.

Rad added that Trump’s Gulf tour is partly intended to bypass Israeli obstruction and secure broader deals that may benefit U.S. interests—particularly in energy, arms, and diplomacy.

Mounting Pressures Within Israel and the U.S.

Ambassador David Mack further highlighted growing discontent on both sides. In Washington, some Republican figures and Trump advisors are alarmed by Netanyahu’s moves that could undermine Trump’s Gulf strategy. Meanwhile, in Israel, public sympathy is rising for the families of captives in Gaza and for the soldiers still being deployed.

According to Mack, many Israeli security and intelligence officials, as well as influential public intellectuals, are increasingly vocal in their criticism of Netanyahu’s conduct, particularly the prolonged war in Gaza. This, he says, is deepening internal discontent and eroding Netanyahu’s domestic standing.

Cancelled Visit: Just Logistics?

The delay in U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s planned visit to Israel added fuel to the fire. While Pentagon officials insist the visit was merely rescheduled so Hegseth could join Trump’s regional tour, some analysts see deeper diplomatic implications.

Gregory Aftandilian suggested that skipping Israel was likely a tactical move to avoid discussing the controversial Houthi deal during a sensitive visit.

Yet Seth Binder disagreed, saying:

“The visit delay isn’t a big deal. U.S. foreign policy is driven by the White House and advisors like Stephen Witkoff, not the Defense Department.”

Final Word: A Strategic Mirage?

Though tensions between Trump and Netanyahu have surfaced in recent weeks, the real question remains: is this a calculated divergence for regional positioning, or a genuine fallout that could reshape the U.S.–Israel alliance?

For now, Washington’s eyes remain on Gulf capitals, not Tel Aviv. And as Trump gears up for what he calls a “historic Middle East breakthrough,” Netanyahu may find himself increasingly isolated, both domestically and diplomatically.