Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the joint US-Israel strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities as a pivotal moment for global stability, saying the operation would have “historic consequences for peace.” Speaking at the Pentagon during a high-profile meeting with US defence officials, Netanyahu likened the mission to “the roar of two lions” echoing across the globe.

“The B-2 pilots sent a message to the world,” US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told Netanyahu as they sat beneath a framed photo of the stealth bomber that participated in the mission.

“I think Iran took note,” Netanyahu replied, before driving home the symbolism: “Everybody in the Middle East took note It was like the roar of two lions, and it was heard all over the world.”

The visit marked a rare moment of overt praise from the Israeli leader, who thanked the United States for standing “shoulder to shoulder” with Israel in what he called a show of decisive strength aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. “First comes strength, then peace,” Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu met with a cadre of top US defence leaders, including Joint Chiefs of Staff Vice Chairman Adm. Christopher Grady, CENTCOM’s outgoing commander Gen. Erik Kurilla, and senior Pentagon policy official Elbridge Colby.

“These are not just military operations,” he said. “They are strategic statements — and they change the calculus of peace.”

NETANYAHU SAYS STRIKES SHOW STRENGTH OF US-ISRAEL ALLIANCE

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said recent military strikes carried out with the United States had sent a powerful message to the world.

“The whole world noticed. All of Iran noticed,” Netanyahu said. “The entire Middle East noticed the strength of our alliance. It was like a roar of two lions. We have admiration and appreciation for all that you have done.”

Netanyahu made the remarks during a meeting with Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon, where both leaders emphasized the unity and strength of the US-Israel partnership.

Hegseth expressed his gratitude to Netanyahu for standing as a strong ally. In response, the Israeli leader said, “First comes strength, then peace. I hope we will see the fruits soon.”

– Ends

With inputs from AP

Tune In