Trump views new Israeli offensive in Gaza as wasted effort: Sources to NBC News

CAIRO – 11 May 2025: US President Donald Trump has reportedly described the new Israeli offensive in Gaza as a wasted effort as it undermines his reconstruction plans in the enclave, according to two sources speaking to NBC News.

The sources, a US official and another individual familiar with alleged tensions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stated that the US president is disappointed with Tel Aviv’s decision to launch a new military offensive in Gaza.

Trump reportedly believes the offensive contradicts his plan to rebuild Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East," a term he previously used to describe his vision for relocating Palestinians from the strip permanently and undertaking large-scale construction projects.

Despite international condemnation, Israeli officials have recently indicated plans for an expanded military campaign in Gaza, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stating the territory will be "entirely destroyed."

These plans allegedly include the potential seizure of the entire enclave, the forced displacement of almost all Palestinians to southern Gaza, and taking control of aid distribution alongside private security contractors.

Israeli media has reported that Trump is considering announcing a comprehensive plan for peace in Gaza by the end of this week, apparently sidestepping Israel who has refused to stop the war despite Hamas’s offer to hand over all captives it still holds in exchange for a permanent ceasefire.

US President Donald Trump has reportedly severed direct communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over manipulation concerns#Egypt #Africa #MENAhttps://t.co/Z0779JqhEF

— Egypt Today Magazine (@EgyptTodayMag) May 10, 2025

Media outlets have reported on alleged tensions between Trump and Netanyahu regarding the handling of issues in the Middle East, including the Iranian nuclear program.

Israel has long considered military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities, viewing its archfoe’s uranium enrichment levels as a significant threat.

Tel Aviv has been awaiting Trump’s approval and support for potential strikes against Iran. However, the US initiated talks with Iran last month to pursue a deal limiting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Moreover, the US has seemingly left Israel isolated once again after Trump announced an agreement with the Houthis to cease targeting shipping in the Red Sea.

While the Houthis acknowledge the agreement, they maintain it does not extend to Israeli shipping or territories, asserting that they will continue to target Israeli vessels and territories until the war in Gaza ends.

Trump, whom Netanyahu described this year as Israel’s "best friend," has reportedly severed direct communication with Netanyahu, believing Netanyahu is "manipulating him," according to Yanir Cozin, a correspondent for Israeli Army Radio, citing close associates who spoke to Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.

Trump is scheduled to embark on a Middle East tour this week, including stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, notably excluding Israel.

The Iranian nuclear program, Red Sea tensions, and the Gaza war are expected to be key topics on the agenda.