Trump touts ‘extraordinary relationship’ with Netanyahu

President rips “fake news” claims of disagreements between his administration and the Israeli government, says Israel is working with the US to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

By David Rosenberg, World Israel News

President Donald Trump pushed back on reports of disagreements between the United States and Israel during the ongoing conflict with Iran, dismissing the claims as “fake news” while touting what he called his “extraordinary” relationship with Israel’s prime minister.

The president spoke with reporters on Air Force One overnight, responding to questions regarding the war with Iran and cooperation between the US and Israel.

When asked whether Israel is taking part in American-led efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz – the strategically crucial waterway closed by Iran last week – Trump confirmed that Israel is working with the US.

President Trump went on to mock reports of a spat between his administration and the Israeli government.

“They are working with us,” Trump said. “The relationship with Israel – I know there is more fake news. No, seriously, I thought to myself, ‘Did I have an argument with Bibi?'”

“No, we are really getting along well. He would tell you that ‘We are leading the whole thing.’ And I don’t know if he can say it or not say it, it doesn’t matter. The point is to get it done. But my relationship with Bibi Netanyahu, I would say, is extraordinary.”

Last week, Axios reported that the Trump administration and the Israeli government recently had their first major disagreement since the start of the conflict with Iran, after the US allegedly objected to Israel’s bombing of Iranian oil facilities.

The outlet cited an Israeli official who was quoted as saying that the American message to Israel following the strikes was “WTF.”

The US is said to have warned Israel that the attacks could bolster support for the regime.

Benjamin NetanyahuDonald TrumpIran warStrait of Hormuz