Is it possible to create an apple id without having to use a trusted phone number?

All new accounts use two factor authentication and that in turn requires a trusted device and/or number. The section belwo explains this.

Get a verification code and sign in with two-factor authentication - Apple Support

"Whenever you sign in with your Apple ID on a new device or browser, you'll confirm your identity with your password plus a six-digit verification code. There are a few ways you can get a verification code. You can use the code displayed on your trusted device, get a text or phone call, or generate a code from your trusted device. If you use iOS 11.3 or later on your iPhone, you might not need to enter a verification code. In some cases, your trusted phone number can be automatically verified in the background on your iPhone." See Two-factor authentication for Apple ID - Apple Support for adding a regular telephone and for more information about two factor authentication in general.

From: Two-factor authentication for Apple ID - Apple Support

"If you're already using two-factor authentication with your Apple ID, you can't turn it off."

Two-factor authentication is enabled by default on new Apple IDs and cannot be turned off.

And from: Two-factor authentication for Apple ID - Apple Support

"To use two-factor authentication, you need at least one trusted phone number on file where you can receive verification codes."

Ergo, you must have a trusted telephone number when setting up a new account.

The phone number is in your favor, imagine you've lost your phone ? no one can check your images or accounts if you lock it with 2fa.

2fa is like your mercedes keys, if you lost them you lost the car.

[Link Edited by Moderator]