US defence secretary announces new arms supplies to Israel

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Pentagon on Wednesday, where they discussed the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, the prisoner exchange deal, continued arms supplies to Israel, and Iran’s nuclear programme.

Hegseth announced that Washington would provide Israel with weapons it had not yet received, arguing that this was necessary due to what he described as the “existential threat” facing the occupation state.

He went on to express his “great respect” for the nation’s approach to neutralising the military capabilities of groups like Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.

Hegseth stated that the Pentagon is prepared to consider all options regarding the Gaza Strip. His remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump expressed his desire for Washington to take control of Gaza and oversee its redevelopment.

During the meeting, Hegseth commented: “On the question of Gaza, the definition of insanity is attempting to do the same thing over and over and over again.”

“The president is willing to think outside the box, look for new and unique, dynamic ways to solve problems that have felt like they were intractable … We’re prepared to look at all options.”

Watch: EXPLAINER – How Trump’s Gaza proposals could violate international law