Netanyahu gifts Trump gold pager, sparks international backlash

During a recent visit to the White House, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented President Donald Trump with a gold-plated pager, symbolizing Israel's controversial operation against Hezbollah in September 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 39 individuals, including children and healthcare workers. The pager, inscribed with 'Press with both hands,' commemorates a coordinated attack where thousands of devices detonated across Lebanon and Syria. Trump described the operation as a 'major success' during the gift exchange, which took place alongside his provocative claim that the U.S. plans to 'take over' the Gaza Strip, drawing widespread international condemnation. Netanyahu emphasized the significance of the operation, suggesting it marked a turning point in the conflict with Hezbollah and highlighted Israel's military capabilities. Despite the grim context of the gift, Netanyahu praised Trump as Israel's 'greatest friend and ally.' In return, Trump gifted Netanyahu a signed photograph, further underscoring their diplomatic ties.