US Alarm Rises Over Netanyahu's Syria, Gaza Actions

Senior White House officials have voiced growing alarm over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's aggressive actions in Syria and Gaza, with some describing him as unpredictable and likening him to a 'madman.' Despite a US-brokered ceasefire, Israel continued strikes in Syria, targeting army convoys and key buildings in Damascus and citing threats to the Druze minority, which caught the Trump administration off guard. Tensions escalated after an Israeli tank shell hit Gaza's only Catholic church, prompting President Trump to personally call Netanyahu to demand an explanation and public apology. While Trump has not publicly criticized Netanyahu and has previously defended him against corruption charges, skepticism and frustration are increasing within his administration. Allies such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey have also expressed concerns about Israel's conduct. The White House remains unclear if Trump shares his advisers' full frustrations, but the rift over Netanyahu's strategy is evident.