Washington D.C. – A new book by New York Times journalists Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan has shed light on a contentious phone conversation between former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in September 2025. According to “Regime Change,” Trump used aggressive language to pressure Netanyahu into backing a U.S.-brokered Gaza ceasefire proposal.
The book details a heated exchange between the two leaders, in which Trump expressed frustration over the prolonged conflict. “This war has gone on for too fucking long,” Trump was quoted as saying, before warning Netanyahu that the proposed agreement was a “great deal for Israel.” Trump hinted at consequences for Israel if Netanyahu backed out, stating, “We will get a divorce. We will break up.”
Netanyahu responded by pushing back against Trump’s accusations, questioning why he was being yelled at and suggesting that Trump had misinterpreted his intentions. “Who gave you the wrong impression I was calling to get out of the deal?” Netanyahu reportedly asked Trump.
Despite Netanyahu’s objections, Trump appeared resolute in his insistence that the Israeli leader could not withdraw from the agreement. Ultimately, a ceasefire framework was announced publicly in October, suggesting that Netanyahu had acquiesced to Trump’s demands.
The tense exchange has raised questions about the dynamics of the U.S.-Israel relationship under the Trump administration. Some analysts have criticized Trump’s approach as heavy-handed and bullying, while others have praised his efforts to promote a peace deal. The controversy is likely to spark further debate about the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and the challenges of navigating delicate relationships with key allies.
The “Regime Change” book provides a detailed account of Trump’s tenure in office, including his foreign policy decisions and dealings with world leaders. The authors’ meticulous research has yielded valuable insights into the inner workings of the Trump administration, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the key decisions and power struggles that shaped U.S. policy during this period.
As the Biden administration navigates its own set of foreign policy challenges, the legacy of Trump’s approach to international relations remains a topic of ongoing debate. The controversy surrounding the Gaza ceasefire proposal serves as a reminder of the complexities and tensions that often accompany high-stakes diplomacy.
