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2d ago

Hegseth Joins Trump’s Middle East Tour, Deferring Israel Visit

The Defense Secretary’s decision reflects Trump’s continued support despite Pentagon controversies and ongoing investigations.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at the White House on May 1. Photo: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Overview

  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has postponed a planned trip to Israel to accompany President Trump on his May 13 Middle East tour aboard Air Force One.
  • The Pentagon clarified that Hegseth’s Israel visit is still expected to occur, with spokesman Sean Parnell emphasizing the trip was not canceled.
  • Hegseth’s original itinerary in Israel included meetings with Israeli officials and military briefings off the Gaza coast.
  • Trump’s Middle East tour will include stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, with other senior cabinet members also joining.
  • The move signals Trump’s ongoing public support for Hegseth, who faces scrutiny over Signal leak allegations and leadership challenges within the Pentagon.