Netanyahu open to US B-2 bombers amid fragile Israel-Iran ceasefire
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent visit to Washington D.C. has sparked discussions about the potential for Israel to gain access to some of the United States’ most powerful military equipment. As the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran holds, Netanyahu expressed openness to the idea of Israel obtaining B-2 stealth bombers and bunker-busting bombs, similar to the ones used by the U.S. to target Iran’s nuclear program.
During his visit, Netanyahu met with House Speaker Mike Johnson and engaged in discussions about the possibility of Israel acquiring advanced military capabilities. When asked about the prospect of Israel accessing American military equipment, Netanyahu stated, “Would I like to see Israel have the capacities that the United States has? Of course we’d like it. Who wouldn’t want it?” He emphasized the importance of the assistance Israel has received from the U.S. in bolstering both Israeli and American security interests.
The bipartisan effort led by Reps. Mike Lawler and Josh Gottheimer to grant President Donald Trump the authority to provide Israel with B-2 stealth bombers and bunker-busting bombs if Iran continues to pursue its nuclear program has gained traction. This legislation has garnered support from several Democratic co-sponsors in addition to Lawler and Gottheimer. The equipment in question was utilized in Operation Midnight Hammer, a recent covert strike authorized by Trump to target Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Netanyahu’s visit to Washington also included a meeting with President Trump, during which he commended the strong coordination between the U.S. and Israel. He praised the relationship between the two countries and hinted at the possibility of another meeting before his departure from Washington. The collaboration between the American president and the Israeli Prime Minister has been described as unparalleled and holds promise for the region and the world.
Overall, Netanyahu’s discussions in Washington have reignited conversations about the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Israel, particularly in the realm of military cooperation. The potential for Israel to access advanced military equipment from the U.S. underscores the shared security interests and close relationship between the two nations. Netanyahu’s visit has highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in addressing regional challenges and promoting stability.
