US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he did not believe Israel was spying on the United States, dismissing a media report claiming Israel was most likely behind cellphone surveillance devices found near the White House and elsewhere in Washington.
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Politico reported the miniature surveillance devices, colloquially known as "StingRays," were discovered and that they were most likely linked to the Israelis. Israel has denied the report.
"I don't believe the story. I don't think the Israelis were spying on us, I would find that hard to believe," Trump told reporters on the White House lawn. "My relationship with Israel has been great. You look at the [recognition of Israeli sovereignty on] the Golan Heights, moving the embassy to Jerusalem, even what's happening with Iran; Iran is a much different country than it was two and a half years ago. Anything is possible, but I don't believe it."
It is unclear when the devices were planted and how the alleged Israeli connection was established. The report was based on two former senior US officials, although it is unclear what administration they worked for.
According to the Politico report, "The devices were likely intended to spy on President Donald Trump, one of the former officials said, as well as his top aides and closest associates – though it's not clear whether the Israeli efforts were successful."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the report outright, saying on Thursday that the accusation was an "absolute lie." Netanyahu's office has stressed that Israel was in full compliance with its longstanding pledge not to engage in espionage in the United States.
