President Donald Trump was reportedly frustrated over the weekend after Israel launched strikes on Iranian oil storage facilities and a refinery near Tehran, a move that sparked massive fires, drove oil prices higher and exposed tension within the U.S.–Israel partnership. According to a report from Axios, Israeli forces targeted oil depots and refinery infrastructure in and around the Iranian capital in an operation that went well beyond what American officials had anticipated. While Israel reportedly informed Washington beforehand and argued the sites were linked to fueling missile operations, U.S. officials were said to be surprised by the scale of the attack.
One American official described the strikes as far more expansive than expected, reportedly telling Axios, “We don’t think it was a good idea.” An Israeli official portrayed Washington’s reaction more bluntly, saying the message from U.S. officials amounted to: “WTF.” Neither the White House nor the Israel Defense Forces publicly confirmed the exchange, but the report highlights the first visible strain in coordination between the two allies since the conflict intensified on Feb. 28 during Operation Epic Fury. Footage circulating online showed towering flames and thick black smoke rising over industrial zones near Tehran. Iranian authorities warned residents to remain indoors as fuel leaks from damaged facilities reportedly ignited, sending burning runoff through nearby streets.
According to Axios, a Trump adviser said the president’s frustration stemmed partly from the potential economic impact.“The president doesn’t like the attack. He wants to save the oil, not burn it,” the adviser said, noting concerns that energy disruptions could push fuel prices higher.The episode underscores Washington’s effort to pressure Iran militarily while avoiding actions that could trigger wider regional escalation or major disruption to global energy markets.
