Netanyahu Denies Rift with Trump After Gulf Visit Excludes Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed speculation of a rift with the U.S. after President Donald Trump’s recent Gulf visit excluded Israel, sparking international media buzz. Trump’s trip to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates secured major business deals but raised questions about Israel’s omission, despite being Washington’s closest Middle East ally.

The visit followed Trump’s controversial decision to halt U.S. airstrikes against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The group has continued launching missile attacks on Israel while Tehran pushes for renewed nuclear talks. The shift in U.S. policy has led to concerns in Jerusalem about a potential cooling of bilateral ties.

Speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem, Netanyahu addressed the issue for the first time. “I spoke with President Trump about 10 days ago,” he said. “He told me, ‘Bibi, I want you to know, I have a complete commitment to you and a complete commitment to the state of Israel.’”

Netanyahu also revealed reassurances from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who recently told him not to “pay attention to all these fake news stories about this rupture between us.”

The statement comes amid growing global pressure on Israel to end its ongoing military campaign in Gaza. President Trump has urged a swift resolution, citing the humanitarian toll on civilians. Israel’s 11-week aid blockade has exacerbated conditions in Gaza, drawing sharp criticism from international observers.

Despite media narratives suggesting a diplomatic strain, Netanyahu emphasized continued U.S.-Israel cooperation. The reaffirmed commitment aims to quell rumors of division as regional dynamics shift and calls for de-escalation grow louder.

By directly addressing concerns, Netanyahu seeks to reassure both domestic and international audiences of the enduring U.S.-Israel alliance amid evolving Middle East tensions.