JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu quietly departed for Washington under heightened security measures amid reported concerns over potential threats from Iran, according to Israeli media reports.
Netanyahu is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss a range of regional and bilateral issues.
Israeli media reported that, instead of departing from the usual Ben Gurion Airport, the prime minister travelled aboard a special aircraft from Nevatim Air Base due to security considerations linked to possible threats from Iran.
The Prime Minister’s Office did not announce the departure time in advance and did not issue an official explanation for the unusual travel arrangements. However, Israeli media cited security concerns as the reason for the changes.
According to reports quoting informed sources, the Israeli cabinet meeting held on Sunday was also moved from the Prime Minister’s Office to an underground undisclosed location for security reasons.
Israeli media further reported that, unlike previous overseas visits, Israeli diplomatic correspondents were not permitted to travel on the official aircraft with the prime minister. No official reason was provided for this decision.
After departing for the United States, Netanyahu posted a statement on social media saying his meeting with President Trump would cover a wide range of issues, with Iran expected to be the top item on the agenda.
“Our clear objective is to strengthen Israel’s security and power and to expand the circle of peace around Israel,” Netanyahu said in the statement.
He also said he intended to offer condolences to President Trump over the death of Lindsey Graham, describing him as “a true friend of Israel.”
Israeli authorities have not officially confirmed the reported security-related measures surrounding Netanyahu’s departure.
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