'Stop being so ...': Trump rebukes Netanyahu in heated call over Gaza ceasefire plan

Trump viewed Hamas’ conditional acceptance as a significant opening that could pave the way for a lasting truce and the release of hostages.

US President Donald Trump reportedly confronted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a tense phone conversation over Washington’s proposed Gaza ceasefire plan, urging him to view Hamas’ conditional response as a breakthrough rather than a setback.

According to a report by Axios, the exchange took place after Hamas offered a partial acceptance of the US-brokered framework, agreeing to release all remaining hostages, living and deceased, in exchange for a full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, provided certain conditions were met.

Netanyahu, however, dismissed the proposal as “nothing to celebrate,” prompting Trump to respond sharply, “I don’t know why you’re always so f***ing negative. This is a win. Take it.”

The reported exchange brings into the spotlight the growing tension between Washington and Jerusalem as the Trump administration presses for an end to the two-year conflict in Gaza and a political resolution to the standoff.

Trump viewed Hamas’ conditional acceptance as a significant opening that could pave the way for a lasting truce and the release of hostages. Netanyahu, on the contrary, has been wary of halting operations, citing domestic political risks and security concerns.

However, despite the friction, Israel reportedly paused its airstrikes in Gaza within hours of Trump’s call. Netanyahu later struck a conciliatory tone, hailing the US president and reaffirming cooperation with Washington on the peace process.

Under the US-drafted framework, Israel would suspend its assault once both sides sign the agreement. Hamas’ military wing would disarm, and all hostages would be released within 72 hours. The plan also calls for an immediate influx of humanitarian aid to Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of worsening famine conditions.

Negotiators from both sides are expected to meet in Cairo on Monday to finalise the terms.

On Friday, Trump reiterated his demand for Israel to “cease attacks” in a Truth Social post on Friday, later claiming that Israel had agreed to an “initial withdrawal line.