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U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is scheduled to visit Israel on May 12, just ahead of President Donald Trump’s Middle East tour, which includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Hegseth’s visit aims to reassure Israeli leaders amid rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He is expected to meet with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss regional security concerns.
This trip comes in the wake of the recent dismissal of National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. Waltz was removed from his position after unauthorized communications with Israeli officials regarding potential military action against Iran, which contradicted President Trump’s preference for diplomatic solutions. Additionally, Waltz’s involvement in “Signalgate” has also raised issues with his position as an adviser.
Despite the controversies, President Trump has nominated Waltz to serve as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. In the interim, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has assumed the role of acting national security adviser, consolidating influence within the administration. This move reflects a shift towards a more centralized foreign policy approach under Trump’s leadership.
Hegseth’s upcoming visit is seen as an effort to mend relations and align strategies with Israel following Waltz’s departure. The discussions are expected to focus on coordinating responses to Iran’s nuclear activities and addressing the situation in Gaza. Hegseth’s engagement with Israeli leaders aims to reinforce the U.S.-Israel alliance and ensure cohesive policies ahead of President Trump’s broader regional engagements.
The timing of Hegseth’s visit is critical, as Israel prepares to escalate military operations in Gaza following the breakdown of truce talks with Hamas. Thousands of IDF reservists have been mobilized, and the offensive is anticipated to commence after President Trump’s Middle East tour.
🇺🇸🇮🇱-HEGSETH HEADS TO ISRAEL BEFORE TRUMP’S BIG MIDEAST TOUR
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is flying to Israel on May 12 for some high-stakes chats with Prime Minister Netanyahu—just before President Trump kicks off his tour of the Middle East.
It’s his first trip since… pic.twitter.com/OVJfgeo9m4
— Breaking News of the Day (@Breakingne66541) May 4, 2025
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