Is Judy Woodruff's scoop legit? Is Trump trying to dissuade Israel from cutting a peace deal?

[Bucky]

7. UPDATE: Axios says he denied it

https://www.axios.com/2024/08/15/trump-netanyahu-gaza-hostage-ceasefire-deal-call

Why it matters: A crucial round of negotiations with senior U.S., Qatari, Egyptian and Israeli officials is set to take place in Doha on Thursday to try to close the remaining gaps between Israel and Hamas.

Axios earlier reported that Trump spoke on the phone with Netanyahu on Wednesday and discussed the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal, citing two U.S. sources who were briefed on the call.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre said in a briefing on Wednesday with reporters that it is critical to reach a deal in order to release the hostages, bring relief to Palestinians in Gaza and decrease regional tensions.

There are 115 hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza, where nearly 39,900 Palestinians have been killed, according to the local health ministry.

Driving the news: One source said Trump's call was intended to encourage Netanyahu to take the deal, but stressed he didn't know if this is indeed what the former president told Netanyahu.

The Israeli Prime Minister's Office issued a statement denying the call took place after the story was published. The Trump campaign declined to comment.