US Defense Secretary Hegseth en route to Israel for meetings with Netanyahu, Katz — report

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly on his way to Israel, according to Channel 14's Noam Amir. He is expected to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, though the exact agenda remains unclear. The report follows earlier indications that the visit would take place today.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is now en route to Israel, Channel 14's Noam Amir reported early Wednesday morning. Hegseth is expected to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, though the specific agenda has not been disclosed. The report confirms that the visit, which had been subject to conflicting reports over the past several hours, is taking place today.

In rapid succession early Wednesday, The Zioneer reported at 02:20 Jerusalem that CNN had the visit scheduled for Wednesday, then that a U.S. official told Barak Ravid (N12) the visit was rescheduled to Thursday, then that a senior official confirmed Thursday, and finally that a report indicated the visit had been moved back to today. The Zioneer further reported at 02:50 Jerusalem that the visit was expected today. The new Channel 14 report now provides direct confirmation that Hegseth is traveling.

The visit comes amid heightened U.S.-Israeli coordination on Iran, including a Monday evening phone call between Defense Minister Katz and Secretary Hegseth, as The Zioneer reported. The Pentagon's military campaign against Iran and broader regional security posture are expected to be central topics.

It remains unclear what specific matters will be discussed during the meetings. No official statement on the visit's duration or additional participants has been issued.

5 developments

1. 9 minutes ago · 08:32 · 8 JulLatest

   Visit agenda includes addressing Israeli concerns over potential US arms sales to Turkey.

2. 07:52 · 8 Jul

   US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has arrived in Israel.

3. 06:19 · 8 Jul

   Secretary Hegseth is confirmed to be currently en route to Israel.

• Strong00:07 · 15 JunDefense Minister Katz speaks with US counterpart Hegseth
• Developing6 hours ago · 02:41 · 8 JulHagest to arrive in Israel from Ankara after Trump-Erdogan meeting for Iran, F-35 talks
• Strong15:10 · 10 JunUS Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tours naval base at Guantanamo Bay
• Strong22:21 · 10 JunUS Defense Secretary Hegseth meets CENTCOM commander at Florida headquarters

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