President Donald Trump was reportedly taken by surprise by two recent Israeli military actions—an airstrike on a Catholic church in Gaza and another on government buildings in Damascus, Syria. These developments prompted him to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an attempt to rectify the situation.
According to the White House, the U.S. president was displeased with both operations, which occurred without prior notice to Washington. This dynamic highlights what sources describe as a growing tension and lack of communication between the two leaders, despite a history of political alliance.
Trump Caught Off Guard by Strikes, Strains Relations With Netanyahu Despite Alliance
The strike on the only Catholic church in Gaza sparked immediate concern from Trump, prompting a phone call to Netanyahu to express dissatisfaction and request a public statement clarifying it as a mistake.
Similarly, Israeli airstrikes in Damascus caught Trump off guard, as they came during a sensitive time when the U.S. was actively trying to stabilize the region. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the president’s surprise and his efforts to manage the aftermath through direct communication with Netanyahu.
While Trump and Netanyahu have collaborated closely on several issues, including the joint air campaign against Iran, their personal relationship remains complex. Despite moments of public unity, such as Netanyahu nominating Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize during a recent White House dinner, sources suggest there is underlying distrust between them.
Trump had hoped Netanyahu’s latest visit to Washington would help secure a ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate humanitarian aid, but the Israeli prime minister left without finalizing any agreement.
Ceasefire Delayed as Gaza Crisis Deepens and Trump Presses for Humanitarian Relief
As of now, no ceasefire deal has been reached, and mediators await a response from Hamas regarding the latest proposal. Trump is reportedly frustrated by the ongoing violence in Gaza, particularly after the fatal church bombing.
His administration has been actively pushing for an agreement that includes both a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Meanwhile, Hamas has publicly stated that it is working diligently to reach a resolution.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with over 1,000 people reportedly killed while seeking aid since late May. Despite international criticism of Israel’s limited aid distribution, Leavitt emphasized that Trump’s leadership is the reason any aid is reaching Gaza at all.
She also blamed the previous administration for the instability inherited by Trump, portraying him as committed to achieving peace and minimizing loss of life in the region. The administration remains engaged in diplomatic efforts, aiming to bring an end to the conflict through peaceful means.
