US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an unannounced visit to Israel on Monday, according to Axios reports cited by multiple outlets. The meeting occurs about a week before Israel’s parliamentary election, with some reports specifying it is eight days prior.
Reuters says it cannot immediately confirm the visit, and both the Pentagon and Israel’s embassy in Washington decline to comment. Several sources also note that the Israeli prime minister’s office does not immediately respond to a request for comment. One outlet reports that discussions include resuming operations against Iran, reflecting broader regional security concerns.
Other coverage places the visit in a wider political context. Free Malaysia Today links the trip to recent US political support for Netanyahu ahead of the election, citing President Donald Trump’s endorsement. Across reports, the main points remain consistent: a private US-Israel senior meeting takes place shortly before the vote, while official confirmation and details are limited by refusals to comment.
