Netanyahu denies rift with Trump, says ties remain strong

WASHINGTON, United States — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected assessments that a rift has developed between him and U.S. President Donald Trump, saying the two leaders share a common outlook on core issues and address disagreements openly. Speaking in remarks reported on Wednesday, Netanyahu said he remains in constant contact with Trump and described the relationship as built on solid foundations. He said U.S. support for Israel continues and that the strategic partnership between the two countries has strengthened. Netanyahu added that differences of opinion do not weaken the relationship and are instead managed through dialogue. He said coordination with Washington on regional security matters is ongoing. The Israeli prime minister said the public claims of a "crack" in the relationship do not reflect reality and that ties are as strong as ever. No further details on the specific disagreements referred to were immediately available.