On Wednesday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held an introductory conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yisroel Katz.
A spokesperson for the Department of Defense, John Ullyot, shared a readout of the call, in which Hegseth reiterated “the unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel.”
“Secretary Hegseth emphasized that under President Trump’s leadership, the United States fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself, and that Israel is a model ally for the region,” the statement explained.
Hegseth “also reiterated that the United States is committed to deepening the bilateral security relationship to enhance Israel’s ability to address regional threats and ensure that Israel has the capabilities it needs. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact moving forward.”
Earlier in the week, Hegseth also had a phone conversation with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. A senior U.S. defense official noted that the two “held an introductory call today to discuss the unbreakable bond that exists between the United States and Israel.”
“Both leaders discussed the importance of advancing mutual security interests and priorities, especially in the face of persistent threats. The Secretary stressed that the United States is fully committed, under President Trump’s leadership, to ensure that Israel has the capabilities it needs to defend itself,” the official added.
“Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact,” the official further stated.
Netanyahu’s office also issued a statement about the call, mentioning that the Prime Minister congratulated Hegseth on his new role.
“Secretary Hegseth noted his many years of support for the State of Israel and his friendship with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and promised that the US would stand shoulder to shoulder alongside Israel and was fully committed to its security,” the statement said.
Hegseth was confirmed as Defense Secretary by the Senate on Saturday and took the oath of office shortly afterward.
{Matzav.com}
