Trump and Netanyahu's Iran call erupted into a 'shouting match from hell'

Trump and Netanyahu clashed over resuming attacks on Iran, with sources telling Ynet the call spiralled into a quote-unquote shouting match from hell. Netanyahu pushed for strikes, the sources said, while Trump held to a diplomatic track. Talks between the sides have been deadlocked for months, each sticking to its demands.

Netanyahu's office pushed back hard on the account. It confirmed the call happened but called it quote-unquote very much not a difficult conversation. The White House, asked by Fox News, said the US is in a very strong position with control of the Strait of Hormuz and the Iranian economy collapsing, and that Operation Economic Outcast, described as the greatest naval blockade in history, and the new Operation Iron Gate will continue with full effect. Trump, the spokesperson said, holds all the cards.

According to the Financial Times, Netanyahu has been ringing Trump almost daily to press him into restarting the Middle East conflict. It's not the first flashpoint between the two: earlier this year it was reported Trump called Netanyahu quote f***ing crazy in a heated exchange. Conservative commentator Miranda Devine asked him about it on a podcast in June, and Trump confirmed the words, saying he was a little bit perturbed at Netanyahu's constantly fighting with Lebanon — while insisting the pair stayed cordial.

Trump has repeatedly denied that Israel manoeuvred him into starting the war in February. His midterm defeat has been blamed on the conflict.

Tehran is turning up the heat too. On Wednesday, Iranian Security Council secretary Mohsen Rezaei told Beirut-based channel Al Mayadeen that if the Americans attack, Iran will not limit itself to nearby bases — and may target some American military bases in European countries.