Hegseth calls Israel a ‘model ally’; PM: Iran, Middle East ‘took notice’ of our alliance

WASHINGTON — Ahead of his meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Pentagon, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth calls Israel a “model ally,” one that fights to protect itself.

“There are many allies. And then there are allies that act.”

Hegseth lauds “the skill of what you accomplished” in Israel’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear program.

He notes the “skill and bravery and courage” of US pilots involved in the operation, including “in the defense of Israel.”

US President Donald Trump gave Iran 60 days to negotiate before Israel struck, notes Hegseth. “After 60 days of negotiation, President Trump was very clear. After 60 days, he gave them every opportunity, then Operation Rising Lion took place.”

He praises “the skill of your professionals, and what was accomplished was absolutely incredible.”

Hegseth notes the presence of US Centcom Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla, and says he operated “in his own quiet way. Incredibly effective.”

Netanyahu says the Israeli pilots and the B-2 pilots “sent a message to the world.”

“I think Iran took notice. I think the Middle East took notice” of the strength of the US-Israel alliance, says Netanyahu.

He offers the gratitude of Israel’s people to the US for its part in the strikes on Iran: “We have absolute thanks and gratitude and admiration for Centcom, for the US military, for the Secretary of Defense, for the President of the United States. Magnificent.”

“You have the gratitude of the people of Israel, of the State of Israel, and I think many, many other people around the world.”