US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly made an undisclosed visit to Israel and met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid renewed speculation about the possibility of further military strikes against Iran.
Axios reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter, that Hegseth met Netanyahu at Ovda Air Base eight days before Israel’s October 27 election. According to the report, Washington and Tel Aviv have discussed the possibility of resuming large-scale military strikes against Iran.
During the visit, Hegseth also met US military personnel stationed at the base. He later posted photographs on social media showing his meeting with members of US Central Command.
Israeli officials have not publicly provided details of the visit. The Israeli Embassy in Washington declined to comment, while Netanyahu’s office did not respond to questions, according to the report.
The visit comes amid heightened political and security tensions involving Iran. US President Donald Trump had previously endorsed Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s October 27 election and threatened renewed military action against Iran. Netanyahu thanked Trump for his support and has also made statements indicating support for the possibility of another attack on Iran.
The timing of Hegseth’s visit has prompted questions about security coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv. However, the reported discussions do not establish that either side has decided to launch a new military operation. Nor does the available information confirm that Hegseth’s visit was directly connected to preparations for an attack.
The absence of an official account of the meeting leaves its precise purpose unclear. Any assessment of whether a renewed strike on Iran is being planned would require further evidence, including official statements or independently corroborated reporting.
A new military confrontation could have wider consequences for regional security. For now, however, the reported visit and discussions should be distinguished from a confirmed decision to resume hostilities.
