Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected suggestions that either he or US President Donald Trump controls the other's decisions, amid growing differences between the two allies over Israel's military operations in Lebanon, according to a report by the Asian News International.
Speaking at the Jerusalem News Syndicate's International Policy Summit 2026, Netanyahu said Israel and the United States are independent countries that make decisions based on their own interests. He said the two governments often agree on major issues but do not always share the same position.
"President Donald Trump does not do everything I want, nor do I do everything he wants. We are leaders of independent and proud countries; sometimes we don't see eye to eye," Asian News International quoted Netanyahu.
His remarks came after Trump recently suggested in an interview that Israel pays close attention to his views and that he has influence over Israeli actions. Trump also described his relationship with Netanyahu as positive and highlighted the importance of US support for Israel.
The comments come at a time when differences have emerged between Washington and Jerusalem over Israel's continuing military campaign in Lebanon. The Trump administration has expressed concern that the operations could affect the memorandum of understanding reached with Iran last week after a series of diplomatic talks.
The disagreement has also spread to other leaders. US Vice President JD Vance recently criticised Israeli cabinet members who publicly opposed the Iran agreement. He warned that attacking Israel's main ally was not helpful during a period of regional tensions.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu is facing pressure at home as well. A recent survey conducted by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Agam Institute found that most Israelis believe Iran has emerged stronger after the conflict and the US-backed agreement.
The findings add to the challenges facing Netanyahu as his government faces criticism over both its foreign policy and its handling of regional developments.