Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

The discussions focused on the successful joint efforts in recent military operations against Iran, emphasizing the strength of U.S.-Israeli military cooperation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On July 9, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the Pentagon for a meeting to discuss recent military operations and the ongoing partnership between the United States and Israel.

The meeting, held in the Secretary of Defense’s office, was attended by senior U.S. defense and military officials, including Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Christopher W. Grady, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Army Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, and Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby. The discussions focused on the successful joint efforts in recent military operations against Iran, emphasizing the strength of U.S.-Israeli military cooperation.

The meeting highlighted the robust alliance between the two nations, with both leaders expressing appreciation for their countries’ contributions. Netanyahu underscored the importance of U.S. support, particularly from CENTCOM, in achieving strategic goals, while Hegseth praised the precision and effectiveness of Israeli forces. The leaders also addressed the broader implications of their military achievements for regional stability and future peace prospects.

Event Details

The meeting occurred on July 9, 2025, at the Pentagon, with the primary objective of commemorating the recent successes in military operations against Iran and reinforcing the strategic partnership between the United States and Israel. Key topics included the outcomes of these operations and their significance for Middle Eastern security.

Participants included:

• Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg

• Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Christopher W. Grady

• CENTCOM Commander Army Gen. Michael E. Kurilla

• Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby

Netanyahu noted the familiarity of the setting, mentioning he had visited the Secretary of Defense’s office approximately 40 to 50 times, though he observed changes in the decor, such as a new picture on the wall.

Military Operations