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US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth conducted an unannounced visit to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Israeli media reports. The secret meeting took place just eight days before Israeli elections and comes amid ongoing discussions between Washington and Jerusalem regarding the possible resumption of large-scale military operations against Iran.

The visit signals significant diplomatic activity between the US and Israeli leadership at a critical political juncture. Netanyahu stated at an air force base: ‘Do not test us, you will suffer harder blows,’ in apparent reference to regional adversaries.

The timing of the meeting is notable as it follows former US President Donald Trump’s recent endorsement of Netanyahu, with the White House reportedly expecting political developments to follow. The discussions appear to centre on coordinating military strategy in the region and come amid ongoing tensions with Iran.

Sources: www.israelhayom.co.il, Times of Israel, Ynet, Jerusalem Post

Update 02:15: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met secretly with PM Netanyahu on Monday, eight days before Israeli elections, with discussions reportedly focusing on Iran operations.

Update 03:01: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth held a secret meeting with Netanyahu at an Israeli air base to discuss potential military operations against Iran, weeks before the US election.