U.S. President Donald Trump told the BBC on Monday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not defy him over missile strikes on Iran, according to a report. The BBC’s North America Editor Sarah Smith spoke with Trump in a brief phone call about his conversations with Netanyahu leading up to the strikes.

Trump Claims Missiles Were Already ‘On Their Way’

When asked if Netanyahu defied him by firing at Iran on Sunday, Trump said the missiles were “already on their way” when he spoke with the Israeli prime minister. He added, “if I tell him to do something, he does it.”

Call Lasted Just Under a Minute

The call lasted just under a minute, according to the BBC — Trump did not provide further details on the nature of his conversations with Netanyahu prior to the missile launches.

Missile Strikes Occurred on Sunday

Missile strikes on Iran were launched on Sunday, prompting questions about whether Netanyahu acted without prior approval from Trump — the U.S. president’s comments aim to clarify the timeline and his relationship with the Israeli leader.

Trump’s remarks highlight the close coordination between the two leaders in the lead-up to the military action, and the BBC’s Sarah Smith reported that Trump emphasized Netanyahu’s adherence to his guidance.

The brief nature of the call suggests that the conversation was focused on a specific point regarding the missile strikes; Trump did not elaborate further on the details of the operation or its strategic implications.

Netanyahu has been a key ally of Trump in the Middle East; their relationship has often been characterized by mutual support on issues related to Iran and regional security.

The U.S. president’s comments appear to reinforce the idea that he and Netanyahu maintain a strong working relationship, but Trump’s statement also suggests that the Israeli prime minister acted in alignment with his directives.

Trump’s assertion that the missiles were “already on their way” when he spoke to Netanyahu indicates that the launch was imminent and not a last-minute decision. This suggests a high level of coordination between the two leaders.

The BBC interview took place on Monday, following the missile strikes; Trump’s comments aim to clarify the timeline and the role of the U.S. in the operation.

Trump’s remarks do not provide a full account of the events leading up to the strikes; However, they do offer insight into the relationship between the two leaders and the level of cooperation during the operation.

The U.S. and Israel have long shared common interests in the Middle East. The missile strikes on Iran further show the alignment of their strategic objectives.

Trump’s comments to the BBC reflect his confidence in Netanyahu’s decision-making. The president emphasized that Netanyahu follows his guidance, suggesting a strong level of trust between the two leaders.

While the details of the missile strikes remain under investigation, Trump’s remarks provide a public affirmation of the coordination between the U.S. and Israel. This highlights the ongoing partnership between the two nations in regional security matters.