US President Donald Trump has sparked fresh controversy after declaring that Israel would not exist without his support, while also taking a swipe at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a bilateral meeting with Qatar’s Emir.

Speaking during the meeting, Trump defended his record on Israel, pointing to policies implemented during his presidency that he said significantly strengthened the country’s security and international standing.

“Without me, there would be no Israel,” Trump reportedly said, citing his administration’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the relocation of the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and support for the Abraham Accords, which normalised relations between Israel and several Arab nations.

Trump also appeared to criticise Netanyahu, suggesting that the Israeli leader had not always adequately acknowledged the role his administration played in advancing Israeli interests.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and ongoing debates over US involvement in the region. Trump’s comments are expected to fuel further discussion about the relationship between Washington and Tel Aviv, particularly as he continues to defend his foreign policy legacy.

The meeting with Qatar’s Emir also touched on regional security, diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in the Middle East, and the role of key Gulf states in promoting stability across the region.

Trump’s latest comments add another layer to the often-complex relationship between the former US president and Netanyahu, whose ties have fluctuated over the years despite close cooperation during much of Trump’s first term in office.