The "United Front" Strategy: Trump Avoids Public Rifts with Netanyahu to Secure Gaza’s Phase 2

A report by the Times of Israel reveals that President Donald Trump is intentionally lavishing praise on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in public to keep their significant disagreements private. This calculated strategy aims to project a "united front," making Netanyahu more inclined to comply with U.S. requests, specifically the transition to Phase 2 of the Gaza peace plan. This phase involves establishing a post-war governing body to replace Hamas and fully reopening the Rafah crossing.

While some of Trump's aides are reportedly "frustrated" by Netanyahu’s perceived stalling, the President believes that public disputes would harm his political interests and alienate his Republican base. Washington is betting that private diplomacy will yield results, with expectations of an Israeli announcement regarding the Rafah crossing in the coming days. Despite friction over Turkey’s role in Gaza and military strikes deemed "unnecessary" by the U.S., Trump remains committed to this "private pressure" approach to maintain regional stability.