Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized his recent visit to the United States as "excellent" On Wednesday, citing private comments from U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth about Israel's military strengths.
According to Netanyahu, Hegseth told him: "We look at the world, and there are countries that have the will to fight alongside the United States, but they lack the capability. And there are countries that have the capability, but lack the will. Only in Israel do we see both the will and the capability."
Netanyahu said the trip reflected significant American backing for Israel amid public controversy. "My visit to the United States was excellent," He stated. "You constantly hear about the waves of hatred against Israel in the United States, but you are probably not told about the waves of love and appreciation."
The comments underscored Netanyahu's effort to highlight the strength of the U.S.-Israel security relationship following his Washington meetings.