Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly expressed his appreciation to former U.S. President Donald Trump with a heartfelt birthday message, just one day after Israel intensified its airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
Despite recent reports of tension between the two leaders, Netanyahu appeared to reaffirm their alliance on Saturday, hailing Trump as a “decisive and courageous” figure who has consistently supported Israel during key moments of conflict.
“Happy Birthday to you, President Donald J. Trump,” Netanyahu stated. “You’ve been an extraordinary leader with a clear vision and bold actions. You have done great things for Israel.”
The praise came less than 24 hours after Trump applauded Israel’s military campaign, describing the strikes as “excellent” and “very successful.” Israel’s renewed offensive is aimed at neutralizing Iran’s long-contested nuclear program—just as Washington continues backchannel negotiations with Tehran.
Netanyahu defended the military action as part of a global fight against authoritarian regimes, positioning Iran as a shared threat to democratic nations.
“Our enemy is your enemy,” he declared. “What we’re doing is necessary to protect not just Israel but free societies everywhere. Our victory will be your victory.”
This latest escalation follows weeks of increasing tension. Reports in the Israeli media had suggested Trump was frustrated with Netanyahu’s aggressive stance toward Iran—especially as the U.S. seeks to restore limits on Iran’s nuclear capabilities through diplomacy.
Iran, meanwhile, has denied accusations of developing nuclear weapons and condemned both Israel and the United States over the airstrikes. Iranian leaders have accused Washington of being complicit in Israeli aggression, a claim U.S. officials firmly rejected.
Netanyahu’s statement also included congratulatory remarks to the U.S. military on its 250th anniversary. Calling American forces the “guardians of freedom,” he used the opportunity to further emphasize the historic alliance between the two nations.
The timing of this gesture has been seen by analysts as politically strategic. By reinforcing ties with Trump, Netanyahu may be appealing to the large bloc of pro-Israel voters and officials within the United States, particularly as global scrutiny over Israel’s actions continues to grow.
While the Biden administration remains cautious and focused on de-escalation through dialogue, Trump’s public support for Israel’s military moves has sparked renewed debate over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
As Israeli warplanes continue targeting facilities tied to Iran’s atomic program, the world watches anxiously, wondering whether diplomacy will prevail—or if the region is headed for a broader and more dangerous confrontation.
