Before Israel election, Hegseth meets Netanyahu on unannounced visit amid Trump endorsement
Reported meeting in Israel
Axios reported that Hegseth travelled to Israel to see Netanyahu, citing sources. The account described the visit as undisclosed. Reuters said it had not immediately confirmed the trip. The Pentagon and Israel’s embassy in Washington did not promptly answer requests for comment, and the meeting’s agenda was not known.
Trump backs Netanyahu
Trump endorsed Netanyahu on Truth Social on Sunday, ahead of next week’s parliamentary election. It is the first election since the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, and the start of Israel’s campaign in Gaza. Trump praised Netanyahu as an ally in the US war on Iran and wrote that the prime minister had his “Complete and Total Endorsement”.
Coalition faces uncertain outlook
Opinion polls suggest Netanyahu’s religious-nationalist coalition could lose its governing majority. The opposition, however, may also find it difficult to form a government. US Vice President JD Vance said he was not getting involved in Israeli elections. In an interview with digital outlet 2WAY, he said he focused on endorsing American candidates and was concentrating on the midterms.
Key points
- Axios reported Hegseth met Netanyahu during an undisclosed Israel visit.
- Reuters could not immediately confirm the reported trip, and officials had not commented.
- Trump publicly endorsed Netanyahu ahead of next week’s parliamentary election.
- Polls suggest Netanyahu’s coalition could lose its majority, while the opposition may struggle to govern.