US Defense Minister Pete Hegseth is expected to make his first official visit to Israel on Wednesday following his assumption of office. This was reported by three sources familiar with the trip preparations to CNN. The visit comes against the backdrop of a tense situation in the Middle East, where Washington continues to balance between military measures and diplomacy.

Key Topics of Negotiations

The trip includes planned meetings with top Israeli leadership. According to CNN sources, Hegseth intends to hold talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz. One of the central topics of the dialogue will be the issue of supplying American F-35 fighter jets.

Israel has expressed serious concern regarding the potential sale of these stealth fighters to Turkey. Currently, Israel remains the only country in the Middle East operating these aircraft, which ensures its technological superiority in the region. Losing this advantage in the event of a transfer to Ankara would be a major cause for concern for Tel Aviv.

Conflict with Turkey and Netanyahu's Stance

The topic of relations with Turkey has been raised previously. US President Donald Trump mentioned this issue during the NATO summit in Ankara. After the event concluded, Trump left the country, while Hegseth, who accompanied him, plans to continue his journey to Israel.

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Netanyahu stated that the Turkish leader "is not a model ally of the United States" and added that Erdoğan "threatens to destroy my country, the unique Jewish state".

Background: Strikes on Iran and Diplomacy

The plans for the visit are unfolding against a backdrop of escalating tensions. On Wednesday night, the US launched strikes on Iranian territory. It is currently unknown whether these actions will affect the Defense Minister's travel schedule. Despite airstrikes on coastal targets in Iran and the cancellation of the license for Iranian oil exports, Washington states its readiness to continue the diplomatic path. These steps were a response to attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, although the US side has not ruled out the possibility of negotiations regarding an agreement.

A request for comment was sent to the White House, but the Pentagon declined to comment.