Netanyahu to U.S. Defense Secretary: “Israel and America Roared Like Two Lions”
In high-stakes Washington meeting, Netanyahu likens joint action against Iran to a ‘lion’s roar’; U.S. Secretary Hegseth: ‘We start with strength, but aim for peace’
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In a symbolic and high-level meeting in Washington on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to reaffirm the strategic alliance between Israel and the United States — and to send a clear message to Tehran.
Referring to the recent joint operations in Iran, Netanyahu stated:
“I think they noticed. I think Iran noticed. I think everyone in the Middle East noticed the strength of the American position and the power of our alliance. Honestly, it was like the roar of two lions. It echoed across the world.”
Netanyahu thanked the U.S. for its continued military and diplomatic support, adding:
“Thank you again, and our admiration for all you’ve done — our gratitude. Thank you.”
Secretary Hegseth responded in kind, emphasizing both strength and long-term vision:
“We start with strength, but it always ends in peace. We have an opportunity for peace because of the actions of Israel and the United States in the Middle East.”
He continued:
“I appreciate your partnership and your leadership, which sends a message to the world — not just to Iran.”
The meeting took place amid rising tensions and followed Israel’s bold retaliatory operation against Iran, dubbed Operation Rising Lion (“Am K’Lavi”), which continues to reverberate throughout the region.