U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday, reaffirming the United States’ strong support for Israel amid rising tensions with Iran. The closed-door talks focused on a range of regional security issues, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions, counterterrorism coordination, and the strengthening of missile defence systems. Secretary Hegseth described America’s commitment to Israel’s security as “ironclad” and emphasized the ongoing need to preserve Israel’s qualitative military edge in the Middle East.

Shared Concerns Over Iran

The leaders expressed mutual concern over Iran’s accelerating nuclear program and the activities of its regional proxies, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and militias in Syria and Iraq.

“Israel faces an increasingly dangerous security environment, and the United States stands firmly with its ally,” Hegseth said during a brief press appearance following the meeting.

Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked the U.S. for its “unwavering support” and warned that Iran continues to advance toward nuclear weapons capability while destabilizing the region through its network of armed proxies.

Enhanced Defence Cooperation

The meeting also addressed joint missile defence initiatives, including the Iron Dome and David’s Sling systems, along with expanded intelligence-sharing and technological collaboration.

U.S.-Israel security coordination remains a pillar of Washington’s Middle East strategy, particularly as efforts continue to prevent further escalation in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.