Today, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Pentagon. This was Secretary Hegseth's first hosting of a foreign dignitary as Secretary of Defense in the Trump Administration. The Secretary emphasized the unbreakable bond that exists between the United States and Israel and praised Israel as a model ally in the Middle East. Secretary Hegseth stressed that the United States remains 100 percent committed to Israel's security.
The Secretary and Prime Minister discussed Hamas' October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of some 1,200 civilians, including more than 40 Americans. Secretary Hegseth praised Prime Minister Netanyahu for his courage and leadership over the past 15 months, culminating in a ceasefire agreement that secured the release of Israeli, American, and other hostages.
The Secretary emphasized that this Administration will support Israel's right to defend itself. Prime Minister Netanyahu praised the Administration's commitment to providing Israel with the munitions it needs.
Secretary Hegseth also commended Prime Minister Netanyahu for Israel's military operations that have significantly degraded Iran and its proxies. Both leaders agreed that Iran remains a threat to regional security and agreed to work together on this challenge. Secretary Hegseth and Prime Minister Netanyahu also agreed that regional integration is critical to stability in the Middle East.
The Secretary made clear that the United States, under President Trump's leadership, will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel to pursue peace through strength.
