WASHINGTON — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Pentagon on Wednesday, marking his first official hosting of a foreign leader in the Trump administration, the Department of Defense said.
Hegseth reaffirmed the United States’ “100 percent commitment” to Israel’s security, calling the country a model ally in the Middle East. He also praised Netanyahu for his leadership following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people, including more than 40 Americans.
The two leaders discussed the ceasefire agreement that led to the release of Israeli, American, and other hostages. Hegseth reiterated that the administration supports Israel’s right to defend itself, while Netanyahu thanked the U.S. for its continued military assistance.
Hegseth also commended Israel’s military operations against Iran and its proxies, with both leaders agreeing that Iran remains a key threat to regional security. They also discussed the importance of regional integration to promote stability in the Middle East.
“The United States, under President Trump’s leadership, will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel to pursue peace through strength,” Hegseth said, according to the readout.
