The discussions took place at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz and National Security Adviser Shmuel Ben Ezra. The group focused on the potential resumption of major combat operations against Iran just 8 days before Israel's election on October 27. Hegseth confirmed a trip to the region on social media, describing it as a "historic mission," though the Pentagon and the Israeli embassy have declined to comment on the specific agenda.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Jerusalem Post Disputes UAE Presence at Hegseth Israel Visit
War17 hours ago
Two sources told the Jerusalem Post that officials from the United Arab Emirates were absent from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's unannounced mission to the Middle East. This reporting contradicts earlier claims that representatives from the Gulf nation attended the secret meetings in Israel on Monday. While some reports previously indicated UAE involvement, the Jerusalem Post cited sources asserting no such officials were present.
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