US Defence Secretary Hegseth makes surprise Israel visit, meets Netanyahu

Pete Hegseth, serving as the United States Defence Secretary, made an unannounced visit to Israel, where he held meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The visit underscores ongoing military and diplomatic engagement between Washington and Jerusalem amid regional security concerns.

Hegseth disclosed the visit through a social media post, noting that the trip was part of his official duties overseeing US military operations and personnel across the Central Command area of responsibility. The command's jurisdiction encompasses West Asia, northeast Africa and select regions of Asia.

The Defence Secretary's visit to Israel reflects the strategic importance the US places on its military relationship with the country. Such high-level visits typically involve discussions on defence cooperation, regional security developments and coordination on military matters affecting the broader Middle East region.

Hegseth's tour of the Central Command region forms part of regular Defence Department engagements with military personnel and allied governments across the vast geographical area. These visits allow senior Pentagon officials to assess operational readiness and maintain direct communications with key regional partners.